Ministry of Public Health and partners launch annual seasonal influenza vaccination campaign

Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), h...

Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), has launched the annual seasonal influenza vaccination campaign.

From October 1, flu vaccines for the 2024-25 winter season will be available free of charge at more than 80 health facilities and clinics, including 31 PHCC Health Centres, as well as outpatient clinics at HMC and multiple semi-government and private hospitals and clinics across Qatar.

Dr Abdullatif Al Khal, Head of the Infectious Diseases Division at HMC, said it is important for people to be proactive and protect themselves and their family members against the flu as early as possible this year before the arrival of winter. 

Dr Al Khal stated, “The circulating flu viruses change from year to year, and so too does the flu vaccine, which is why it is so important for all family members to receive the flu vaccine every winter. We need to remember that the flu is potentially a serious disease that can lead to hospitalisation and sometimes, even death, and should never be underestimated.”

Dr Al Khal went on to say, “Fighting the flu starts with each and every one of us. The vaccine is available at clinics across the country, including government, private and semi-private. This makes it easier and more convenient than ever to receive the vaccine. I encourage everyone to get their free flu vaccine as soon as possible.”