Bulgaria Launches Autumn-Winter 2025/26 COVID-19 Immunization Campaign

Campaign Commences Across Bulgaria

Bulgaria officially launched its autumn-winter 2025/26 immunization campaign against COVID-19 on September 18, 2025. The administration of vaccines is scheduled to commence nationwide on September 23, offering free immunization to eligible residents. This initiative, approved by the National Expert Council on Immunisations, aims to enhance public health protection during the colder seasons.

Vaccine Details and Distribution

For the current campaign, a total of 47,520 doses of mRNA vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech have been delivered. These vaccines are specifically adapted to target the LP.8.1 variant of SARS-CoV-2. Of the total supply, 43,200 doses are designated for individuals aged 12 years and older, while approximately 4,000 doses are allocated for children between six months and 11 years of age. The vaccines are already available at regional health inspectorates and will be administered free of charge.

Target Groups and Administration Guidelines

The immunization campaign prioritizes several key demographic groups, including:

• People aged 60 and over
• Individuals with chronic diseases
• Immunocompromised persons, including children over six months
• Pregnant women
• Medical personnel
• Users and staff of social institutions

Any other person without contraindications is also eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. For most individuals, a single dose is administered. However, children under five years of age who have not previously been ill or vaccinated will receive three doses. A minimum interval of three months is required from the last dose for previously immunized individuals, while immunocompromised persons may receive an additional dose after six months.

Broader Public Health Recommendations

In addition to the COVID-19 immunization, the National Expert Council on Immunisations recommends parallel protection with a seasonal flu vaccine. For individuals aged 65 and over, the flu vaccine is provided free of charge under the 'National Programme for Improving Vaccination Prevention of Seasonal Influenza and Pneumococcal Infections in Persons Aged 65 and Over 2023-2026'. Historically, Bulgaria has faced challenges with low vaccination rates, with national vaccine coverage remaining below 35%, partly due to misinformation and mistrust. This new campaign seeks to address these concerns and improve overall immunization levels.