Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Public Health has disclosed that receiving seasonal influenza vaccines can substantially decrease the risk of contracting the flu by approximately 60% in adults and 75% in children.
As part of a public awareness initiative, the Ministry is encouraging individuals to avail themselves of vaccines as the most effective means of flu protection. "Get the flu vaccine to lower the risk of severe flu complications and fatalities," the Ministry emphasized on various platforms.
The flu virus can result in severe illness, hospitalization, and even fatalities, with over 760 people hospitalized due to the flu in Qatar in 2022. The Ministry emphasized, "Getting the vaccine shields you from the risk of contracting the flu. In the event of infection, avoid social gatherings, dispose of tissues properly, practice hand hygiene, wear masks, get adequate sleep and rest, stay hydrated, and, after recovering from seasonal influenza, take the vaccine."
In a video message, Dr. Soha Al Bayt, Director of the Health Emergency Department at MoPH, highlighted that free vaccines for flu and COVID-19 are available at numerous health facilities in Qatar.
Free flu vaccines are accessible at 90 health facilities, including 31 Health Centers, outpatient clinics at Hamad Medical Corporation, and several semi-government and private hospitals and clinics across Qatar. Dr. Al Bayt stressed the importance of taking the vaccine as the weather changes and the winter season approaches, leading to increased circulation of upper respiratory viruses.
"While anyone can contract these respiratory infections, certain population groups are at an elevated risk of developing more severe symptoms, including those over 50 years of age, individuals with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, and young children," stated Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal, Head of Infectious Diseases at HMC.
Symptoms of the flu, RSV, and COVID-19 are very similar and may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath, among other symptoms. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should stay at home to reduce the risk of spreading the infection. In case of moderate or severe symptoms, seeking medical assistance is advised.
The Ministry also cautioned against the use of antibiotics, emphasizing the difference between seasonal influenza and bacterial illnesses. "Seasonal influenza is caused by a virus, not bacteria. Avoid the use of antibiotics and receive the flu vaccine," the Ministry clarified, noting that antibiotics target bacteria, whereas viruses require different treatment approaches.