The Ministry of Health (MOH) emphasized the necessity of being careful and cautious against the spread of influenza and preventing respiratory diseases, by taking the anti-influenza vaccine to prevent infection and reduce the side effects associated with the virus, explaining that the vaccine contributes significantly to reducing the number of cases, especially since influenza is an acute viral infection that spreads easily. It infects all age groups and is transmitted by inhaling droplets containing the virus or touching contaminated surfaces. The incubation period ranges on average from 2-4 days and taking the seasonal influenza vaccine every year is one of the most important methods of prevention.
The Ministry also explained that the groups most vulnerable to serious complications are those with chronic diseases, children, the elderly, pregnant women and health workers, and this comes with the approaching winter season, indicating that among its symptoms is a high temperature of more than 38 degrees Celsius, chills, sweating, and headaches, in addition to constant dry cough, fatigue and exhaustion, runny nose, sore throat, and muscle pain, stressing that the risk of influenza depends on a group of factors including older age, chronic diseases, a weak immune system, and obesity.
The Ministry of Health indicates that the speedy response to taking the vaccine would contribute, Allah willing, to reducing the number of infection cases, as well as alleviating the side effects if a person got infected.
MOH allows everyone to get the influenza vaccine through “Sehhaty” application and book an appointment to take the seasonal vaccine at the nearest primary healthcare center.