Bangkok: Free influenza vaccinations are being offered to seven at-risk groups in Thailand, with the aim of preventing serious illness during the rainy season. The government, through the National Health Security Office (NHSO), is encouraging individuals in these groups to receive their vaccinations by August 31, 2025.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Sasikarn Wattanachan, Deputy Government Spokesperson, emphasized the importance of this initiative. The NHSO has prepared 4.57 million doses for distribution nationwide, with the Government Pharmaceutical Organization already delivering vaccines to various areas. Due to limited quantities, vaccinations are given on a first-come, first-served basis.
The identified at-risk groups include pregnant women in their second trimester or further along, children aged 6 months to 2 years, patients with chronic diseases such as COPD, asthma, and diabetes, elderly individuals aged 65 and over, mentally disabled individuals who are unable to care for themselves, thalassemia or immunodeficiency patients including those with HIV, and individuals with obesity.
The Department of Disease Control anticipates a rise in influenza cases this year due to weather conditions, and thus urges individuals in these groups to receive their vaccines at any Gold Card-supported service centers. These centers include government hospitals, subdistrict health promotion hospitals, and public health centers in Bangkok, among others.
People can verify participating service units via the Pao Tang app in the Health Wallet section or by contacting the NHSO hotline. Bangkok residents can reserve their vaccination slots through the Pao Tang app or by calling the NHSO hotline.
Ms. Sasikarn highlighted the government's commitment to public health and urged at-risk individuals to participate in this vaccination effort to help build a sustainable immune system within Thai society.