DOHA, Qatar – In a joint effort, the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), and Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) announced the commencement of the annual seasonal influenza vaccination campaign.
Starting from September 18, flu vaccines are available at no cost in 90 healthcare facilities across Qatar. This initiative includes 31 PHCC Health Centers, outpatient clinics at Hamad Medical Corporation, as well as various semi-government and private hospitals and clinics.
Annual Influenza Vaccination Campaign
Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal, Head of the Infectious Diseases Division at HMC, stressed the importance of proactive measures against the flu.
“Flu viruses change yearly, underlining the need for annual vaccination,” Dr. Al Khal explained. “Flu is a serious disease, sometimes leading to hospitalization and death. Don’t underestimate it. Get your free flu vaccine.”
Priority Groups and Vulnerable Individuals
Dr. Hamad Al Romaihi, Director of Health Protection and Communicable Disease Control, emphasized the significance of vaccination, particularly for vulnerable groups.
“While everyone over six months should get vaccinated, certain groups are at higher risk,” Dr. Al Romaihi noted. “This includes individuals over 50, those with chronic conditions, children aged six months to five years, pregnant women, and healthcare workers due to their close contact with vulnerable patients and children.”
Building Immunity Ahead of Winter
Dr. Khalid Hamid Elawad, Manager of Health Protection at PHCC, urged the community to act swiftly.
“Flu vaccine provides maximum protection after two weeks, so early vaccination is key,” Dr. Elawad stated. He reassured the community that the flu shot does not cause the flu, as the virus is inactivated.
“The flu vaccine is safe and backed by extensive research. Millions worldwide have safely received it over the past 50 years,” Dr. Elawad affirmed.
The annual vaccination campaign aims to safeguard Qatar’s population against the flu, particularly as the winter season approaches.
