The Ministry of Health and Prevention has launched its annual national awareness campaign for seasonal influenza for the tenth consecutive year, under the slogan “Fortify Yourself, Protect Your Community.” The initiative primarily targets high-risk groups, including senior citizens, individuals with chronic health conditions, pregnant women, individuals with disabilities, and children under five years old. The campaign will run until March of the upcoming year.
Health authorities across the country have announced the availability of the vaccine for free to certain groups, including citizens, Gulf Cooperation Council nationals, and those with chronic illnesses.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention noted that, over the past decade, the campaign has significantly increased awareness and reduced pressure on hospitals and health centers, particularly from individuals suffering from chronic conditions.
This information was shared during a press conference held in Dubai, in collaboration with partners such as the Abu Dhabi Public Health Center, Dubai Health Authority, Emirates Health Services, Dubai Health, and the Sharjah Health Authority.
Dr. Hussein Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health at the Ministry, emphasized that this campaign is a crucial element in promoting community health and reducing the spread of seasonal diseases. He also mentioned that the ministry is working on a comprehensive strategy to enhance vaccination coverage and improve the readiness of the health system.
He highlighted that the seasonal influenza vaccine is safe and effective, and it is recommended yearly to limit the spread of infection and reduce complications, particularly for high-risk groups like healthcare workers, to protect themselves and their patients.
Moreover, he stated the ministry’s commitment to coordinating with health authorities to ensure the integrated implementation of the campaign nationwide, strengthening surveillance, preventive services, and enhancing the capabilities of healthcare workers to prepare the health system for seasonal and emergency challenges. He also pointed out the importance of community involvement in prevention efforts and fostering partnerships between health entities and community organizations to establish a sustainable health culture.
Dr. Nada Al Marzouqi, Director of Public Health and Prevention at the Ministry, confirmed that the ongoing awareness efforts about the importance of vaccination over the past ten years have contributed to an increase in the number of people seeking the vaccine. This has, in turn, alleviated pressure on hospitals and reduced the number of visits, especially from patients with chronic diseases and high-risk cases.
According to Dr. Shamsa Lutah, Director of Public Health at Emirates Health Services, preventive efforts are part of a national integrated system that covers all health facilities, ensuring that preventive services reach every member of the community.
She reiterated that the campaign prioritizes raising public awareness about the importance of preventing seasonal diseases and adopting proper preventive habits. It encourages high-risk groups, such as senior citizens, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic illnesses, to proactively receive the vaccine, which is considered the first line of defense for safeguarding their health. She also noted that the vaccine is free for citizens and available for residents depending on their insurance coverage.
Dr. Aisha Al Bustani, head of Family Medicine at Dubai Health, mentioned that the Dubai Health Authority provides the vaccine through its network of health facilities, comprising 32 centers and hospitals, including 6 hospitals and 26 outpatient service centers. She stressed the importance of receiving the seasonal influenza vaccine annually as an effective preventive measure, particularly for high-risk groups.