Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Residents in Abu Dhabi, both UAE nationals and expatriates, can now avail free seasonal flu vaccines. This was announced during the UAE's annual national influenza campaign, which began on Monday, September 9. The campaign is organised in collaboration with Emirates Health Services, Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre- Department of Health—Abu Dhabi, Dubai Health Authority, and Dubai Health. The initiative was launched under the theme “Immunise Yourself...Protect Your Community” and will run until March 2025. These free seasonal influenza vaccines will be administered for free in Abu Dhabi in 115 healthcare facilities as well as in the pharmacies that are licensed to provide the vaccine. Meanwhile, in Dubai, expat residents can avail of the vaccine for Dh50 while UAE nationals can receive it for free. The vaccines will be administered at 12 ambulatory health centres at Dubai Health. The efficacy of the vaccine typically lasts for around six to seven months. This annual campaign urges everyone to get the flu vaccine, including citizens, residents, government and private employees, and healthcare workers, with a special focus on those at higher risk of severe flu complications, such as the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health issues. Residents aged six months and older are advised to receive the flu vaccine to ensure better protection against the contagious illness in the community. Flu season in the UAE usually starts in October, and this vaccination campaign aims to ensure a safer winter. While the flu vaccine may not provide full immunity, it greatly reduces the severity of the illness if contracted. FLE/Expat Media
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