The Algerian Ministry of Health, Population and Hospital Reform announced that the national vaccination campaign against seasonal flu will commence on Tuesday, November 3. The campaign will run throughout the autumn and winter seasons. According to the ministry, the vaccine is readily available at public health establishments and pharmacies. The ministry emphasized that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent complications from seasonal flu.
The ministry highlighted that seasonal flu affects thousands of people in Algeria every winter. Certain groups are at high risk of complications, including people aged 65 and above, adults and children with chronic conditions, and those with heart disease, chronic lung disease, diabetes, obesity, kidney disease, and immunodeficiency. These high-risk groups are strongly recommended to get vaccinated.
The ministry specified that individuals with certain medical conditions, such as transplant patients, those with underlying neoplasia, HIV infection, asplenia, and sickle cell disease, should also get vaccinated. Pregnant women and healthcare professionals are also advised to receive the vaccine. The ministry stressed that vaccination against seasonal flu needs to be renewed every year for these high-risk individuals.
The ministry assured that the vaccine will be available at designated vaccination centers within public health establishments, where it will be administered free of charge. Additionally, the vaccine can be accessed at pharmacies and is reimbursable by social security for elderly individuals and chronic patients. The ministry attributed this to the fact that the flu virus undergoes changes each season.
The ministry reminded the public to adopt preventive measures, including regular handwashing with soap and water, using hand sanitizer, limiting contact with others when sick, wearing masks, and maintaining physical distancing. These measures are also effective in protecting against COVID-19. The ministry encouraged everyone to take these precautions to prevent the spread of flu and other infectious diseases.
Seasonal flu is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. It can lead to severe complications, including death, in individuals with chronic conditions or those who are elderly. The ministry emphasized the importance of vaccination in preventing these complications.
The vaccination campaign aims to reduce the incidence of seasonal flu and its complications in Algeria. By getting vaccinated, high-risk individuals can significantly reduce their chances of developing severe flu-related illnesses. The ministry's efforts to promote vaccination and preventive measures are crucial in protecting public health during the flu season.
Key points
- The Algerian government has announced the launch of a nationwide vaccination campaign against seasonal flu, which will run from November 3 throughout the autumn and winter seasons.
