As winter approaches, Egyptian health authorities are urging citizens to get vaccinated against seasonal flu. The vaccine is available at subsidized prices in accredited health offices under the Ministry of Health and Population. These offices are located in all governorates, providing easy access for citizens. The vaccine is particularly recommended for high-risk groups, including the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, and children.
The Ministry of Health and Population has announced the locations where the 2026 seasonal flu vaccine can be obtained. Citizens can find the nearest location to their residence by checking the ministry's website or calling the hotline 105. This initiative aims to facilitate access to the vaccine before the onset of winter, reducing the risk of severe illness.
According to Dr. Mohamed Abdullah Kamil, a consultant for internal medicine, kidney, and diabetes, it is highly recommended that high-risk groups get vaccinated against seasonal flu. These groups include the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, and children. The vaccine reduces the risk of infection and severe complications, which can be life-threatening.
The seasonal flu vaccine is safe and effective for children aged six months and above. It is particularly important for school-going children, as it significantly reduces the risk of infection and severe complications. Children under nine years old who receive the vaccine for the first time need two doses, administered at least a month apart. Children above nine years old require only one dose.
Pregnant women are also advised to get vaccinated against seasonal flu. The vaccine is safe and does not pose any risks to the mother or the unborn child. In fact, it provides protection against severe complications and transfers antibodies to the child, protecting them during the first six months of life.
Like any vaccine, the seasonal flu vaccine may have mild side effects, including redness or swelling at the injection site, slight fever, fatigue, and muscle pain. These symptoms usually disappear within a day or two and indicate that the immune system is responding to the vaccine.
The effectiveness of the seasonal flu vaccine lasts between six and 12 months. It takes about 14 days for the body to build immunity after vaccination. Therefore, it is recommended to get vaccinated annually before the onset of winter to protect against active flu strains. Citizens can get vaccinated even if they have a mild cold, but should wait until they recover if they have severe symptoms.
Key points
- The Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population has made the 2026 seasonal flu vaccine available in all governorates to protect high-risk groups.
- The vaccine is recommended for children aged six months and above, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses.
- The vaccine's effectiveness lasts between six and 12 months, and citizens are advised to get vaccinated annually before winter.
