Doha: The Ministry of Public Health has announced the launch of the National Seasonal Influenza Vaccination and Awareness Campaign, running through March 2027, in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation, Primary Healthcare Corporation, and public, semi-government, and private healthcare facilities.

The campaign aims to safeguard public health and minimise influenza-related complications ahead of the winter season, which typically sees a sharp rise in infection rates. This year's campaign specifically targets the most vulnerable populations, including individuals aged 50 and older, children aged six months to five years, pregnant women, healthcare workers, and individuals with chronic diseases such as diabetes and asthma.

To maximise community protection, the flu vaccine is available free of charge at PHCC centres, HMC health facilities, and more than 50 other private healthcare facilities across the country. Eligible individuals can go directly to any PHCC centre to receive their vaccination without a prior appointment, with fast-track protocols introduced to streamline the process and minimise waiting times.

Dr. Hamad Eid Al Romaihi, Director of the Health Protection and Communicable Diseases Control Department at MoPH, said: "The launch of the annual influenza vaccination campaign underscores the State of Qatar's unwavering commitment to public health." He added that the flu vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against seasonal influenza, and that it is vital to receive the new vaccine every year before winter begins, ideally in October or November, as it takes approximately two weeks for the body to develop full immunity. The ministry urged citizens and residents, especially those at higher risk, to get the seasonal flu vaccine as soon as possible, and is also organising an internal vaccination campaign for its employees.

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