Flu Shots in Greece: Who Gets Them Free and Where to Go
How the 2026-27 flu vaccination works for residents of Athens, including foreigners with an AMKA, plus COVID and RSV shots and when to see a doctor instead of going to an emergency department.
In Greece the seasonal flu shot is free for people insured with EOPYY who belong to the priority groups, such as everyone aged 60 and over, pregnant women and adults with chronic illness. The vaccine is issued on an electronic prescription linked to your AMKA (social security number) and given at most pharmacies, usually without a separate doctor’s visit.
The Ministry of Health issues a new circular each season. For 2026-27 the recommended window is mid-October to the end of November, and you can still be vaccinated later in the winter. Protection builds up in about two weeks. Rules below are as of November 2026.
Who is recommended to get a free flu shot?
The 2026-27 recommendations follow the pattern of recent seasons. The priority groups are:
- everyone aged 60 and over;
- children from 6 months to 5 years;
- children over 5 and adults with chronic conditions, such as heart or lung disease, diabetes, kidney disease or a weakened immune system;
- pregnant women at any stage, and women who have just given birth or are breastfeeding;
- people with severe obesity;
- people in close contact with babies under 6 months;
- health workers and residents of care homes.
For people aged 65 and over, the national vaccination committee prefers enhanced vaccines (high-dose or adjuvanted). If those are not in stock, a standard flu vaccine should be used rather than waiting. Children aged 2 to 17 can have a nasal spray vaccine instead of an injection, unless a doctor advises against it. Children under 9 having their first flu vaccine need two doses at least 28 days apart.
How do you get the shot at a pharmacy?
Most adults in Athens get vaccinated at their local pharmacy in a few minutes.
- Take your AMKA and an ID document (passport, ID card or residence permit) to a pharmacy that vaccinates. Many display a sign, and you can phone ahead.
- If you are in a priority group, the pharmacist or your doctor issues the e-prescription on your AMKA. In recent seasons pharmacists could do this for adults without a doctor’s appointment.
- The pharmacist gives the injection, usually in a separate room or corner of the shop.
- The vaccination is recorded in the National Vaccination Registry, so it appears in your health record.
If you are not in a priority group, your doctor can still prescribe the vaccine, or you can buy it at the pharmacy’s regulated price and have it given there.
Are foreign residents with an AMKA covered?
Yes, if you are insured. Foreign residents who work in Greece, pay social security contributions or are registered as dependants of an insured person are covered by EOPYY in the same way as Greek citizens. The prescription is linked to the AMKA, not to nationality.
If you have an AMKA but no insurance, for example because you live on savings or a pension from abroad, coverage depends on your situation. Uninsured residents have a right of access to public health services under Greek law, but the details for vaccines can differ. Ask the pharmacist to check your AMKA in the prescription system before the shot. Holders of an EU health insurance card (EHIC) should ask about coverage at the pharmacy. Our guide to getting an AMKA in Greece explains who is issued one and how.
Where can you get COVID and RSV vaccines?
COVID-19 vaccines are offered each autumn to older adults and people at higher risk. The flu and COVID shots can be given on the same day in different arms. Ask your doctor or pharmacist which COVID vaccine is in use this season and where it is given in your area.
For RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), Greece has vaccines for adults aged 60 and over on a prescription, with insurance covering part of the cost according to reports when they were introduced, and a 2026 national programme for protecting newborns with an antibody injection. Talk to your doctor if you are over 60 with heart or lung disease, or if you are expecting a baby in the winter months. Check current coverage on the EOPYY website before you buy, because reimbursement rules change.
When should you call a doctor and when should you go to hospital?
Most cases of flu and other respiratory viruses can be handled at home with rest, fluids and fever medicine from the pharmacy. A pharmacist can advise on over-the-counter treatment and tell you when to see a doctor.
| Situation | Where to go |
|---|---|
| Fever, cough and aches, otherwise well | Pharmacy advice, rest at home |
| Symptoms last more than 3 to 4 days, or you are in a risk group | Your personal doctor or a health centre; antivirals work best when started early |
| Shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips, a child who is drowsy or not drinking | Call 166 (ambulance) or 112, or go to the hospital on duty |
Athens hospitals take emergency patients in rotation. Each day certain hospitals are “on duty” (efimerevonta) for each specialty, and the list is published daily. Going to a hospital that is not on duty that day can mean a long wait or a transfer. Our page on emergency numbers in Greece lists what each number covers.
How much do common medicines cost?
Medicine prices in Greece are set by the state, so the same product costs the same at every pharmacy. Prescription medicines covered by EOPYY usually carry a patient share of 0%, 10% or 25%, depending on the medicine and your condition, as of November 2026. Fever and pain relievers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen are sold without prescription in small packs at low prices. Antibiotics require a prescription.
Bottom line
If you are 60 or over, pregnant or living with a chronic illness, get the flu shot before the winter peak, which in Greece usually arrives between January and February. Keep your AMKA number in your phone, because every pharmacy and doctor visit starts with it.
FAQ
Do I need an appointment for a flu shot at a pharmacy?
Usually not, but stocks of some vaccines, especially enhanced ones for over-65s, can run short. Phone the pharmacy first to check.
Can I get the flu shot if I am under 60 and healthy?
Yes. A doctor can prescribe it, or you can buy it at the pharmacy. It may not be free, depending on your insurance.
Can the flu and COVID vaccines be given together?
Yes. Greek guidance allows them on the same day at different sites, or on any day before or after each other.
Should I get vaccinated if I have a cold?
Wait until the symptoms of a respiratory infection pass. A mild runny nose without fever is not usually a reason to delay, but ask the pharmacist.
