Image used for representation only.
Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Public Health has announced that seasonal influenza vaccines can reduce the risk of getting the flu by about 60% in adults and 75% in children.
As part of an awareness campaign, the Ministry has urged the public to take vaccines as it is the best method to protect from the flu. “Receive the flu vaccine to reduce the risk of serious flu complications and death,” the Ministry said on X platform.
The flu virus can cause serious illness and lead to hospitalisation and even death – with more than 760 people being hospitalised due to the flu in Qatar in 2022.
The Ministry said, “Receiving the vaccine protects you from the risk of having flu. In case you get it avoid social gatherings, dispose tissues after use, wash your hands, wear your mask, get enough sleep and rest, stay hydrated, after recovering from seasonal influenza, take the vaccine.”
Director of the Health Emergency Department at MoPH, Dr. Soha Al Bayt in a video message said that vaccines to protect against flu and COVID-19 are available for free at many health facilities in Qatar.
Flu vaccines are available free of charge at 90 health facilities, including 31 Health Centers in addition to outpatient clinics at Hamad Medical Corporation and several semi-government and private hospitals and clinics across Qatar.
“As the weather changes and the winter season arrives, we will see more circulation of upper respiratory viruses. To protect you and those around you we highly recommend you take the vaccine,” said Dr. Al Bayt. “It is common for people to get sick from respiratory infections including seasonal influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 at this time of the year. While anyone can catch these respiratory infections certain population groups are at increased risk for developing more severe symptoms. This includes people over the age of 50 years, individuals with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women and young children,” said Head of Infectious Diseases at HMC, Dr Abdullatif Al Khal.
“Symptoms of the flu, RSV and COVID-19 are very similar. It may include fever, cough and shortness of breath among other symptoms. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should stay at home reducing the risk of passing the infection to other people. If the symptoms are moderate or severe individuals should seek medical support,” he added. MoPH also warned against taking antibiotics and differentiated against seasonal influenza and illnesses caused by bacteria.
“Seasonal influenza is a virus, not bacteria. Avoid using antibiotics and receive the flu vaccine,” the Ministry said.
The ministry explained that bacteria cause bacterial infections and live in different environments. Antibiotics prevent the growth and reproduction of bacteria. It said viruses need a living host to reproduce such as humans, plants, or animals. For a virus infection resting and treatment of associated symptoms is required.
