The vaccination season is coming up!

Autumn is approaching. This also means that the annual vaccination season is just around the corner. In September, patients will receive an invitation for the flu shot . Some of our patients will also receive an invitation for the pneumococcal shot .

Why are these vaccinations important and who receives an invitation for them?

The annual flu shot

The flu is caused by the influenza virus. For most people, the flu is mainly annoying, but some people can become seriously ill from it. This applies, for example, to the elderly and to people with certain chronic conditions.

Therefore, people aged 60 and over and people with certain medical conditions receive an invitation for the free flu shot every year. Examples include people with diabetes, heart, lung, or kidney disease, or a weakened immune system.

Even if you feel healthy and fit, vaccination can be wise if you belong to a risk group. The flu shot reduces the chance of becoming seriously ill from the flu.

Because flu viruses change, the vaccine is adjusted every year. Therefore, the flu shot is offered annually.

A pneumococcal shot too?

Pneumococci are bacteria that can cause severe pneumonia, among other things. The elderly and people with weakened immune systems, in particular, can become seriously ill from this.

In the autumn of 2026 , the following age groups will receive an invitation for the pneumococcal vaccination via their general practitioner:

• people who were born in 1966 ;

• people who were born in 1948, 1949, 1950, 1951 or 1952 .

For the group born between 1948 and 1952, an earlier version of the pneumococcal vaccination was already offered five years ago. Since 2026, a new vaccine has been used that offers better and longer-lasting protection.

Can I get both shots?

Yes. If you are eligible for both vaccinations, you will receive an invitation. Depending on the organization of the vaccination clinic, the flu shot and pneumococcal shot can be administered during the same visit.

When will I receive my invitation?

Invitations for the flu and pneumococcal vaccinations will be sent out in the autumn. The vaccination round will take place on Thursday, October 15, between 1:30 PM and 5:30 PM at d'n Ingel, Schoolstraat 20, 6017 CZ Thorn . We ask that you arrive as close to the indicated time as possible. This will allow us to organize the vaccination session properly and avoid long waiting times.

Practical tips: on the day of the vaccination, wear clothing that allows you to easily expose your upper arm.

If possible, come on foot, by bike, or with someone else, given the limited parking options!

Are you unsure about vaccination?

It is understandable that you may have questions about a vaccination. For example, because you take medication, have had a vaccination before, or are unsure whether you belong to a risk group.

Do you have any questions after reading your invitation? Please contact our practice. We would be happy to help you make an informed decision.

So keep an eye on your mailbox in the coming period. Did you receive an invitation? Read it carefully and bring it with you to the vaccination appointment.

General Practice Dansen & Kessels