National campaign for flu vaccination begins

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has initiated the National Seasonal Influenza Vaccination and Awareness Campaign, set to run through March 2027. This initiative, a joint effort with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Primary Healthcare Corporation (PHCC), and various healthcare facilities, offers free flu vaccines at PHCC centers, HMC facilities, and over 50 private healthcare facilities across the country.

Eligible individuals can receive the vaccine directly at any PHCC center without scheduling an appointment. Fast-track protocols are in place to expedite the vaccination process, reducing wait times and ensuring efficient access. The campaign's primary objective is to protect public health and mitigate influenza-related complications ahead of the winter season, which typically witnesses a surge in infection rates.

This year, the focus is on vulnerable groups, including those aged 50 and above, children aged 6 months to 5 years, pregnant women, healthcare workers, and individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes and asthma. Dr. Hamad Eid al-Romaihi, director of the Health Protection and Communicable Diseases Control Department at MoPH, emphasized the campaign's alignment with Qatar's National Health Strategy, highlighting the importance of proactive disease prevention through national vaccination efforts.

The flu vaccine, he noted, is a safe and effective means of safeguarding against seasonal influenza, as the World Health Organisation annually develops the vaccine to combat the most prevalent strains of the upcoming season. It is crucial to receive the new vaccine each year before winter sets in, ideally between October and November.

After vaccination, the body takes about two weeks to attain full immunity. Influenza can result in severe health issues, such as pneumonia and exacerbation of existing chronic conditions. The MoPH encourages citizens and residents, particularly those at a higher risk of infection, to avail themselves of the seasonal flu vaccine as soon as possible.

Additionally, the Ministry organizes an internal vaccination campaign for employees to promote a healthy and safe work environment. For further information, the Unified Call Centre for health can be reached at 16000.