Get your free vaccines as seasonal flu vaccination campaign begins in Abu Dhabi

Everyone over 6 months old is eligible to receive the seasonal flu vaccine for free. The vaccine is highly recommended, especially among people at high risk and more susceptible to the disease, such as healthcare workers, children under 5 years of age, school-aged children (5-18 years), pregnant women, adults 65 years of age and older, people with chronic diseases, Hajj and Umra pilgrims and also us smokers.

Currently, the flu vaccine is available at 111 health centers, including 15 pharmacies, with the goal of facilitating the patient experience and providing easy access to the best therapeutic and preventive health services.

Through a seasonal flu program, the Center aims to advise the community on the importance of identifying affected cases, analyzing the viral pattern of the disease and the option of flu vaccination for its prevention.

The campaign will contribute to identifying dominant strains and making available appropriate preventive measures and reflects the emirate’s efforts to provide adequate vaccination options for citizens and residents, improve effective health prevention and combat infectious diseases.

Dr Farida Al Hosany, Executive Director of the Infectious Diseases Sector at the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, highlighted the important awareness-raising role the Center plays through the Stop the Spread programme. This program aims to provide the community with the knowledge and culture necessary to maintain public health and raise awareness about correct practices that prevent contagion.

He added: “The seasonal influenza program is an important addition to the Centre’s efforts in the field of awareness and preventive healthcare. The center is committed to collaborating with strategic partners to reduce potential complications related to infectious diseases by emphasizing the importance of preventative measures, especially as we approach influenza season.”

Recognized as one of the most effective methods for preventing seasonal influenza, vaccines protect against common types of influenza viruses and their components are updated annually to ensure their ability to provide the necessary immunity.

The Stop the Spread program includes three upcoming awareness campaigns on vaccination, foodborne illness and antimicrobials, providing the general public with the knowledge and motivation to make informed decisions about the benefits of preventive care and be part of the push to protect the society.