Winter’s on its way, and so is flu season. The UAE just kicked off a national campaign this Tuesday to get people ready before things pick up. And it’s especially aimed at the residents who need a little extra protection. If you’re someone who tends to catch every bug going around, this one’s for you. Keep reading for all the important flu season information you need to know.
When Does Flu Season Tend To Hit The UAE?
Flu season here usually kicks off in late September and sticks around until late March. So pretty much the entire winter stretch. That’s a pretty long window, which is exactly why health officials want people sorted with their vaccines early rather than waiting until everyone around them is sniffling.
Who Should Be Getting The Vaccine
The campaign is putting the spotlight on a few groups who are more at risk if they catch the flu. This includes kids, older adults, healthcare workers, and pregnant women. As well as anyone dealing with a chronic health condition. If you fall into one of these categories, getting vaccinated is being flagged as one of the simplest ways to avoid a rough winter.
It’s easy to brush off the flu as just a few days of feeling miserable. But globally, seasonal flu isn’t something to shrug off entirely. There are roughly one billion cases every year worldwide, with several million of those turning into severe illness. And unfortunately it still leads to hundreds of thousands of respiratory-related deaths annually. So while your own case might just mean a few days on the couch, taking the vaccine also plays a part in protecting the people around you who could be more vulnerable thank you thought.
Why Getting A New Shot Annually Is Essential
If you’re wondering why you can’t just get vaccinated once and call it done, it’s because the flu virus keeps changing its disguise every year. That means scientists have to update the vaccine annually to keep up with whatever new version is circulating, which is why “last year’s shot” doesn’t really cut it this time around.
Where To Get Vaccinated
The flu vaccine is available at hospitals and clinics right across the UAE. There’s no shortage of places to pop in and get it sorted before the season properly kicks off.
It’s Also Essential To Keep In Mind That – Failure To Vaccinate Children May Cost Parents AED 20,000
