Flu season starts early in Latvia as vaccine deliveries face delays

Latvia has confirmed its first flu cases of the season in September, while vaccine deliveries are arriving later than usual. LSM reports that the size and severity of the 2026-2027 flu epidemic will depend partly on public behaviour.

The Disease Prevention and Control Centre began monitoring the flu season on October 7. The National Health Service said vaccine production had been delayed across Europe, and supplies to Latvia would arrive gradually. It said it had not been informed of possible delays during the procurement process.

The state has bought 148,336 flu vaccine doses for this season, compared with 139,120 last year. The 2026 purchase cost 2,482,959.64 euros excluding VAT, up from 2,456,117 euros in 2025.

Latvia has purchased three types of vaccine in line with World Health Organization recommendations: vaccines administered through the nose, 15-microgram vaccines and 60-microgram vaccines. The number of nasal doses, 2,720, and 15-microgram doses, 70,900, is unchanged from last year. More 60-microgram doses were ordered than in the previous season. Suppliers will be paid after the vaccines reach vaccination centres.

State-funded flu vaccination is available to children aged six to 23 months. It is also available to children aged two to 17 and adults aged 18 or older with chronic lung, cardiovascular, metabolic, kidney or mental health conditions, or with an immune deficiency or receiving immunosuppressive therapy.