Rio de Janeiro Launches City-Wide Flu Vaccination Campaign
Rio de Janeiro residents can now protect themselves against the flu as the city’s health department initiated its annual vaccination campaign on Tuesday, March 24th. The initiative makes the vaccine available to everyone aged six months and older.
Protecting Against a Significant Health Threat
Influenza, a common respiratory infection caused by types A and B viruses, poses a significant public health concern. In 2025, Rio de Janeiro recorded 1,036 cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SRAG) linked to influenza, resulting in 144 fatalities. Vaccination is considered the most effective preventative measure, reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
According to Secretary of Municipal Health, Daniel Soranz, “The flu is the most concerning disease on our epidemiological calendar and, as the peak of cases happens in the coming months, it is important that people seek vaccination now, to be protected from now on. Last year, 89,000 doses of the flu vaccine were incinerated because people did not get vaccinated. We cannot let this happen. All people six months and older should go to the posts to update their immunization, especially children and the elderly, who are more vulnerable to the effects of the flu. Our goal is to vaccinate 2.5 million people.”
Vaccination Locations and Schedule
The flu vaccine is available at all 243 vaccination centers throughout the city, including family clinics, municipal health centers, and the three Super Centro Carioca de Vacinação locations. These Super Centers are located in Botafogo (open daily from 8 am to 10 pm), Zona Oeste (ParkShoppingCampoGrande, following mall hours), and Zona Norte (Shopping Nova América). Residents can find the nearest vaccination site using the Onde Ser Atendido portal: prefeitura.rio/ondeseratendido.
The vaccination campaign will run until May 30th.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The campaign encourages vaccination for all individuals six months of age and older. Children under nine years vintage receiving their first flu vaccine require two doses, administered 30 days apart. Individuals should bring identification and, if available, their vaccination records to their appointment.
The vaccine is safe for individuals with chronic illnesses and those with compromised immune systems and can be administered alongside other routine vaccinations. Contraindications are limited to children under six months and individuals with a history of severe allergic reaction to a previous dose.
Ricardo Magalhães, a Rio resident, took advantage of the campaign, vaccinating both himself and his 14-year-old son, João Bernardo, at the Super Centro Carioca de Vacinação in Botafogo. “Now that winter is approaching, it’s very important to keep our vaccination records up to date,” Magalhães stated. His son added, “I came to protect myself from the flu; I always endeavor to keep my vaccinations current.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the flu vaccine effective?
A: Yes, the annual flu vaccine is the most effective way to prevent influenza and reduce the severity of symptoms if you do get sick.
Q: Who is most at risk from the flu?
A: Children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic health conditions are at higher risk of complications from the flu.
Q: Can I get the flu vaccine if I have other health conditions?
A: Yes, the flu vaccine is safe for most people with chronic health conditions.
Q: Where can I find a vaccination center near me?
A: You can find a list of vaccination centers and their hours on the Onde Ser Atendido portal: prefeitura.rio/ondeseratendido.
Q: Do I require to book an appointment?
A: While not always required, checking with your local vaccination center for appointment availability is recommended.
Pro Tip: Don’t delay! Getting vaccinated early in the season provides the best protection as the flu virus begins to circulate.
Stay informed about the flu and other health updates from the Secretaria Municipal de Saúde do Rio de Janeiro on Facebook and through their official website: saude.prefeitura.rio/gripe/.