The Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population has announced that the seasonal flu vaccine is now available at all non-routine vaccination offices across the country. The ministry emphasized the importance of obtaining the vaccine annually as an effective and safe means of preventing influenza and reducing the likelihood of complications, particularly with the approaching winter season when respiratory infections tend to spread.
Dr. Amr Qandeel, Deputy Minister of Health and Population, highlighted that vaccination against seasonal flu is a crucial preventive measure to safeguard citizens' health. He noted that getting vaccinated every year before the onset of winter helps enhance protection against influenza and its complications, supporting the state's efforts to promote prevention and maintain public health.
The Deputy Minister emphasized that vaccination is particularly important for groups more susceptible to influenza complications, including individuals aged 65 and above, children, pregnant women, patients with chronic diseases such as heart conditions, diabetes, and respiratory issues, those with weakened immune systems, healthcare workers, and travelers, especially those heading for Hajj and Umrah.
Dr. Hussam Abdel Ghafar, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Population, stated that the ministry is working to raise awareness about the importance of preventing seasonal flu and encouraging citizens to adopt healthy behaviors and get vaccinated annually. He explained that the influenza virus changes from season to season, and thus the vaccine composition is updated annually to match the expected strains, providing the best possible protection during the season.
Abdel Ghafar stressed that the seasonal flu vaccine is safe and effective, and getting vaccinated before the onset of winter allows the body sufficient time to build the necessary immunity. He urged citizens, particularly those in high-risk groups, to get vaccinated as part of the preventive measures and health preservation efforts provided by the ministry.
The spokesperson confirmed that the vaccine is currently available at non-routine vaccination offices affiliated with the Ministry of Health and Population in all governorates. He invited citizens, especially those more susceptible to influenza complications, to obtain the vaccine and benefit from the preventive services offered by the ministry.
The Ministry of Health and Population encourages citizens to take proactive steps in protecting themselves and their families from seasonal flu by getting vaccinated. With the vaccine readily available, individuals can help prevent the spread of influenza and reduce the risk of complications, particularly during the winter months.
Key points
- The Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population has made the seasonal flu vaccine available in all governorates ahead of winter.
- The vaccine is particularly important for high-risk groups, including the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with chronic diseases.
- Citizens are encouraged to get vaccinated annually to protect themselves and their families from seasonal flu and its complications.
