The Department of Health (DOH) will start rolling out government flu vaccines as flu-like illnesses rise across the country. Health Secretary Edwin Mercado spoke on Super Radyo dzBB on Sunday, October 25, 2026. He said the DOH “will begin rolling out influenza vaccines next week” and will prioritize vulnerable sectors, GMA News reported.
“Meron na tayong influenza virus vaccine na ilalabas next week,” Mercado said, as quoted by the Daily Tribune.
DOH flu vaccine rollout 2026 at a glance
- When: On Sunday, October 25, 2026, DOH said the rollout starts “next week.” As of this writing, DOH has not announced an exact start date.
- How long: The vaccination campaign will run for about two months, until December 2026 (Daily Tribune).
- Who gets it first: senior citizens, children below preschool age, and people with pre-existing conditions (Daily Tribune).
- How many doses: In September, DOH Undersecretary Gloria Balboa said DOH was procuring 3,054,600 doses of flu vaccine, expected to arrive in October or November (The Philippine Star).
Why now: flu-like illnesses up 8%
According to GMA News, DOH recorded 11,137 influenza-like illness (ILI) cases in the latest reporting week. That is an 8% increase from the 10,278 cases logged from September 3 to 16. DOH said the total for the year so far is still lower than in the same period of 2025. The Daily Tribune reported 122,514 ILI cases year to date, about 20% lower than the 152,972 cases in the same period last year.
DOH explained that influenza spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing, and through contaminated surfaces. Cases tend to rise in colder weather and during celebrations, when people gather in groups (GMA News). Mercado also told the public that the flu is generally not fatal: “hindi naman fatal itong influenza virus” (Daily Tribune).
Priority groups for the 2026 flu vaccine
- Senior citizens
- Children below preschool age
- People with pre-existing medical conditions (comorbidities)
Earlier, in September, Usec. Balboa named senior citizens and health workers as priority groups (The Philippine Star). Final eligibility will follow DOH’s rollout guidelines, so check with your local health center.
Where to get vaccinated and how much it costs
The reports we reviewed did not list vaccination sites, schedules per area, or any fee. The doses come from DOH’s own procurement. To find out when and where shots will be given in your area, and what to bring, ask your barangay health center or city/municipal health office, and follow DOH’s official announcements. We will update this article once DOH releases the details.
DOH tips to avoid and manage the flu
- Wear a face mask if you have flu-like symptoms (DOH via The Philippine Star).
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing (DOH via The Philippine Star).
- If you get sick, rest, drink enough water and eat proper, nutritious food (DOH via Daily Tribune).
- Germs also spread through contaminated surfaces, so wash your hands often and keep shared surfaces clean.
- If you belong to a priority group, get your flu shot once it is offered at your health center.
Know the symptoms: The Philippine Star, citing the WHO definition, describes influenza-like illness as fever of at least 38°C with cough. Other symptoms can include colds, weakness, body aches, headache, vomiting, sore throat, diarrhea and chills. If your symptoms are severe or don’t improve, especially for seniors, young children and people with comorbidities, see a doctor or visit your health center.
FAQ: DOH flu vaccine 2026
When does the DOH flu vaccine rollout start?
DOH said on Sunday, October 25, 2026 that the rollout begins “next week.” It has not given an exact date yet.
Who can get the flu vaccine first?
Senior citizens, children below preschool age, and people with pre-existing conditions.
Until when is the flu vaccination campaign?
About two months, until December 2026.
Is the flu vaccine free?
The reports we reviewed don’t mention a price. The doses were procured by DOH. Confirm with your local health center.
Where can I get a flu shot?
DOH has not published a list of vaccination sites yet. Ask your barangay health center or local health office.
Did DOH give flu vaccines in 2025?
No. According to The Philippine Star, DOH did not procure flu shots for 2025. It procured 3.6 million doses in 2023 and 5.1 million in 2024.
Sources: GMA News, Oct. 25, 2026; Daily Tribune, Oct. 25, 2026; Daily Tribune, Oct. 25, 2026; The Philippine Star, Sept. 8, 2026. Also read: PhilHealth YAKAP Clinics: how to transfer to your preferred clinic.
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