Doctors report that although the new school year has only just begun, many children—especially younger ones—have already “befriended” colds and influenza. Outpatient visits at family and district hospitals have doubled compared to last month. As a result, officials announced that the influenza vaccination campaign would start earlier than usual this year. Specifically, seasonal flu vaccinations have begun nationwide starting on September 12. As in previous years, children under five years old, pregnant women, the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, and healthcare workers are firstly vaccinated free of charge. Others may voluntarily get vaccinated by visiting their local family or district hospital, or the immunization department of the National Center for Communicable Diseases.

According to D.Ochirbat, State Secretary of the Ministry of Health, the first batch of 135,000 doses required for seasonal immunization has already been purchased. Following the World Health Organization’s recommendations, Mongolia has procured a total of 300,000 doses of influenza vaccine—effective against strains expected to circulate in 2025–2026—through UNICEF and domestic suppliers. The next shipment of 165,000 doses has been ordered and is expected to arrive before September 15.