(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The Peninsula
Doha: An expert at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) stated that now is the best time to get the seasonal flu vaccine before winter starts, stressing that everyone aged over six months need to protect themselves against influenza.
“Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death,” according to Dr. Muna Al Maslamani, Medical Director of the Communicable Disease Center
Dr. Al Maslamani said that while the flu can affect all of us, there are some groups in the community who are more at risk than others. This includes people aged over 50, those with chronic conditions regardless of their age, children aged between six months and five years, pregnant women, and healthcare workers as well as teachers.
“We're all susceptible to the flu. People who are very young, very old or who have chronic medical conditions are at risk for more complications and more severe flu,” Dr. Al Maslamani said.“So, while it's important for all of us to get vaccinated, it's essential for young children, older people, and people who have illnesses to get vaccinated.
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“It is also critical for healthcare workers and teachers to get the flu vaccine due to their close interaction with vulnerable patients and children.”
Dr. Al Maslamani said the best way to prevent flu is by getting the flu vaccine every year, as early as possible.
“The annual flu vaccine has been shown to reduce flu related illnesses and the risk of serious flu complications that can result in hospitalization or even death,” Dr. Al Maslamani said.“Everyday preventive actions such as staying away from people who are sick, covering coughs and sneezes and frequent handwashing can help slow the spread of germs that cause respiratory (nose, throat, and lungs) illnesses, like flu.”
Free seasonal influenza vaccines are available at all primary health centers, HMC outpatient clinics and at more than 45 private and semi-private clinics and hospitals across Qatar.
More information about the flu vaccine and where to get to, are available on
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