Free Influenza Vaccination for Preschool Children Begins Across Uzbekistan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Throughout Uzbekistan, free influenza vaccinations are being administered to children in state-run preschool institutions until the end of February, the country’s Sanitary and Epidemiological Committee stated.

For the campaign, the government has procured 520,000 vaccine doses, which have been distributed across the regions and are intended for preschool-aged children. The primary goal of vaccination is to protect young children, who are among the most vulnerable, from severe illness and to prevent the spread of the virus in group settings.

Vaccination in February is particularly important, as influenza viruses remain active during the winter and spring months, while immunity develops 10–14 days after vaccination and lasts through the end of the season. The vaccine reduces the risk of complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or otitis, and helps prevent large outbreaks in kindergartens. Even if a vaccinated child contracts the flu, the illness is likely to be milder.

During the campaign, each child undergoes a preliminary medical examination, after which healthy children receive the vaccine.

The Sanitary and Epidemiological Committee urges parents to vaccinate their children in a timely manner, emphasizing that modern influenza vaccines are safe and effective. Vaccination remains one of the key ways to protect a child’s health and ensure safe development.