UAE flu vaccine now necessary for school students and some travellers

Dubai's health authorities have expanded the list of individuals who must receive the annual flu vaccine, now including school students and pilgrims making the pilgrimage for Hajj and Umrah. This decision was made public during the launch of the UAE's annual influenza and seasonal respiratory disease awareness campaign.

According to health officials, vaccination is particularly crucial for those at risk of severe complications from the flu, as well as for people who live or care for someone in a high-risk category. The comprehensive list of individuals who should receive the flu shot this season encompasses pregnant women, children six months and older, school students, the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, healthcare workers, and travelers performing Hajj and Umrah during Ramadan.

The UAE's flu vaccination policy has seen updates in the past, initially recommending the vaccine for anyone aged six months and above, with special emphasis on healthcare workers, pregnant women, children under five, the elderly, and individuals with chronic medical conditions. This year, however, the list has grown to include school students and pilgrims making the long journey to Saudi Arabia for the holy pilgrimage.

The expanded vaccination list aims to address the heightened risk of exposure to respiratory illnesses in crowded settings like schools and during Hajj and Umrah, when travelers are in close quarters with people from around the world. By specifically targeting these groups, health authorities hope to curb the spread of the flu not only among the vaccinated individuals but also among their families, students, or fellow travelers.

While the flu shot is still available to anyone over six months of age seeking protection, health officials are urging parents of school-aged children and pilgrims, in particular, to get vaccinated ahead of the 2026-2027 flu season. The UAE has already seen a rise in flu cases this winter, highlighting the importance of the preventive measures.

Health experts advise following standard precautions such as getting the flu vaccine, practicing good hygiene, and maintaining cleanliness while using public transportation, like the Dubai Metro or bus, to minimize the risk of infection during this flu season.