As influenza cases surge across Costa Rica, prompting public health concerns, the Ministry of Health has initiated its annual vaccination campaign starting on May 6, 2025. The campaign, in conjunction with the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), aims to reach 1.5 million individuals within vulnerable demographics.

The vaccination initiative primarily targets high-risk groups, which include:

- Children aged 6 months to under 8 years.

- Adults aged 58 and older.

- Pregnant women, regardless of gestational age.

- Individuals with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, tuberculosis, obesity, and other health concerns.

- Healthcare workers affiliated with the CCSS.

- Emergency responders including Red Cross personnel, firefighters, police forces, and officials from the National Animal Health Service (Senasa).

- Medical students engaged in practicums in healthcare facilities.

Individuals can receive the vaccine at any public healthcare facility operated by the CCSS, such as health posts, clinics, and hospitals.

The duration of the vaccination campaign is forecasted to last approximately 8 to 10 weeks, although the exact end date is not specified.

The Ministry of Health has acquired a total of 1.5 million doses of the vaccine, with the campaign continuing as long as supplies last.

The vaccination schedule varies by healthcare center, and individuals are encouraged to check with their local clinics for operating hours.

Dr. María Luisa Ávila, a former Minister of Health and infectious disease specialist, clarified that the misconception regarding waiting years between vaccinations is inaccurate; annual vaccination is recommended to account for yearly mutations of the influenza virus.

Influenza, commonly referred to as seasonal flu, is a respiratory virus characterized by symptoms such as fever, cough, body aches, and breathing difficulties.

In severe cases, it can lead to bronchial and pulmonary inflammation, hospitalizations, and potentially death.

The National Vaccination and Epidemiology Commission has emphasized the importance of prioritizing high-risk groups.

This includes individuals aged 8 to 56 years with chronic diseases, those with conditions like Down syndrome and cerebral palsy, and caregivers of elderly individuals.

Vaccines are also available through private pharmacies at an estimated cost of ₡8,000.

Mónica Taylor Hernández, the executive president of the CCSS, confirmed that individuals can access vaccinations at any health center without restriction based on their assigned area.

The current rise in influenza cases has been notably observed in the Central Pacific region, which has been reported to have the highest incidence rates.

During the first seven weeks of 2025, CCSS reported 1,817 cases of influenza, yielding an incidence of 34 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.

These figures reflect a significant increase in reported cases, particularly during a period when respiratory viruses are typically more prevalent.

Alfonso Tenorio, a representative of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in Costa Rica, asserted that the influenza virus remains a perpetual threat due to its capacity for annual mutation, necessitating vaccine updates.

He urged high-risk individuals to partake in the vaccination campaign to mitigate severe disease outcomes and avoid hospitalizations.

In parallel, the Ministry of Health has also made COVID-19 vaccinations available in healthcare centers, with no eligibility restrictions based on risk categories.