Seasonal influenza vaccines for the 2026-2027 season have started arriving in pharmacies across Türkiye. According to the Pharmacy Employers' Union (TEİS), the first of two vaccines reimbursed by the Social Security Institution (SGK) reached pharmacies on Sept. 15, with the second expected at the end of September.
TEİS said the manufacturers' retail price for the vaccine was set at 764 Turkish lira, while the amount SGK pays for eligible patients is 451.01 lira. Reports note that the patient's share can vary depending on the prescription, reimbursement conditions and any private insurance.
Who is covered by SGK
SGK reimbursement for flu vaccines is not universal. It applies to specific risk groups, which include:
People aged 65 and over, and elderly residents of nursing and care homes.
People with chronic lung diseases such as asthma and COPD.
People with chronic cardiovascular conditions, including heart failure, hypertension, coronary artery disease and arrhythmia.
People with chronic metabolic conditions such as diabetes, and certain hormonal disorders.
Pregnant women in the second and third trimesters, provided report requirements are met.
Reports stress that a recommendation to be vaccinated is not the same as eligibility for reimbursement, and that people should check their status with a doctor or pharmacist.
Timing and this year's vaccine
TEİS chair Nurten Saydan said three components of the vaccine have changed compared with last season, with the H3N2 component updated to target the strain known as subclade K. Influenza vaccines are reformulated each year because circulating viruses change.
According to Saydan, October and November are generally regarded as the most suitable months for vaccination in Türkiye, though vaccines can be given until February. Protection typically develops around two weeks after the shot. She also called for domestic production of flu vaccines to reduce reliance on imports.
The World Health Organization estimates that seasonal influenza causes around 1 billion infections worldwide each year, including 3 million to 5 million cases of severe illness.
BirGün's coverage noted that while the vaccine is now available, access remains limited. People in risk groups are advised to contact their family physician or pharmacy early.
This article is for general information only. Anyone unsure whether the flu vaccine is suitable for them, or whether they qualify for SGK coverage, should consult a family physician or pharmacist.
Sources
- Grip aşısı geldi: Aşı var ama erişim sınırlı – BirGün
- Grip aşıları eczanelere geldi: 2026-2027 sezonunda kimler SGK desteğinden yararlanabilecek? – Doğayı Dinle
Photo: Eczane 2023 / Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
