Chile’s 2026 Vaccination Campaign: Protecting Communities Against Respiratory Viruses
Chile’s Ministry of Health (MINSAL) launched its 2026 vaccination campaign on March 1st, focusing on protecting vulnerable populations against a range of respiratory illnesses. The initiative offers free vaccinations against influenza, COVID-19, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), whooping cough, and pneumococcus.
Expanding Immunization Efforts
This year’s campaign builds upon previous successes in combating the spread of respiratory viruses. The strategy aims to achieve 85% coverage nationwide within each target group. The COVID-19 vaccine available contains the LP.8.1 strain.
Regional Coverage and Progress
In the Coquimbo Region, vaccination efforts are underway with reported progress. Influenza vaccination coverage reached 17.1% in the same period of 2025, a 0.4 percentage point increase. Currently, COVID-19 vaccination coverage for those over 65 years of age stands at 1.74%, with health officials urging increased participation.
Health professionals emphasize the importance of vaccination before the onset of winter, when respiratory virus circulation typically increases.
Understanding the Threat of Coronaviruses
MINSAL reminds the public that coronaviruses are a group of viruses capable of causing respiratory illnesses, ranging from mild colds to severe conditions like SARS (2002) and MERS (2012). The virus causing COVID-19, detected in late 2019, had a significant global impact.
Chile’s early and widespread vaccination strategy played a crucial role in mitigating the effects of the pandemic, reducing severe cases, hospitalizations, and fatalities. Despite challenges, the Coquimbo Region successfully navigated the pandemic.
Why Vaccination Matters
Vaccination is a safe, free, and effective way to prevent severe illness, reduce complications, and protect communities through collective immunity. It too helps prevent the resurgence of controlled or eradicated diseases.
Information on vaccination points and eligible groups is available on the Ministry of Health’s Patient Portal.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The 2026 vaccination campaign prioritizes the following groups:
- Individuals 65 years and older
- Healthcare personnel in public and private facilities
- Pregnant women (at any stage of gestation)
- Individuals with compromised immune systems (from 6 months of age)
- Adults (18+) with specific comorbidities (with a medical order):
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Severe Asthma
- Heart Failure
- Stage 4 or higher Kidney Failure
- Cirrhosis
- Morbid Obesity
Pro Tip
Check the Ministry of Health’s Patient Portal to verify your vaccination status and available vaccines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the vaccination campaign free of charge?
A: Yes, the vaccination campaign is free for all eligible groups.
Q: Where can I find a vaccination center?
A: Vaccination centers are available throughout the public health network. Information can be found on the Ministry of Health’s Patient Portal.
Q: What is the importance of getting vaccinated before winter?
A: Winter typically sees an increase in respiratory virus circulation, making vaccination particularly vital for protecting vulnerable individuals.
Q: What is the new COVID-19 vaccine strain?
A: The COVID-19 vaccine available contains the LP.8.1 strain.
Q: Who is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine?
A: Currently, individuals 65 years and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.
Did you know? Vaccination not only protects you but also contributes to the health and safety of your community.
Stay informed and protect yourself and your loved ones by taking advantage of the 2026 vaccination campaign. For more information, contact Salud Responde at 600 360 77 77.
