Published on Wednesday, May 7, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Costa Rica’s Social Security system (CCSS) has launched its annual influenza vaccination campaign, with an estimated 1.5 million people expected to receive the flu shot this year.

Influenza is a common viral respiratory illness that spreads easily through human contact. Symptoms typically begin suddenly and may include chills, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue, and high fever. In some cases, the flu can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and, in extreme cases, death, even among healthy individuals. The virus can survive on surfaces for up to three days and is transmitted primarily through touch.

Since 2004, the flu vaccine has been distributed annually as part of a nationwide public health effort. This year, the vaccine is available at all public community health clinics, known as Ebais, across the country.

The campaign prioritizes vulnerable populations, including legal foreign residents with a valid DIMEX ID. Eligible groups include:

• Children between 6 months and 8 years of age.

• Individuals aged 8 to 57 with chronic health conditions (e.g., diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses).

• Adults aged 58 and older.

• Pregnant women.

The campaign also includes frontline and essential workers, such as healthcare professionals, Red Cross responders, firefighters, and employees of key government institutions, including the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Public Education, the Ministry of Public Security, the General Directorate of Migration, and municipal governments.

To receive the vaccine and help prevent the spread of the virus, individuals are encouraged to contact their nearest public health clinic.

Individuals not included in the vulnerable populations list, regardless of their Social Security affiliation status, must purchase the flu shot through private pharmacies. The vaccine is priced at approximately $25 per dose for the season.

In related health news, the Ministry of Health recently announced the arrival of 34,000 yellow fever vaccine doses. This treatment is now once again available at pharmacies and private hospitals nationwide.

CCSS is the state-run organization responsible for the country's public health sector.

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Should Social Security provide the flu vaccine free of charge to everyone in the country? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com