Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The Ministry of Health urged Saudi citizens and expatriates to take the seasonal influenza vaccine. They can book for the vaccination appointment through the 'Seasonal Influenza Vaccine' service of the Sehhaty application. Health groups have begun providing seasonal influenza vaccine services from primary healthcare centers in all regions of the Kingdom for those who booked through the ministry's Sehhaty app.

The ministry stressed the need to take the vaccine dose annually due to the continuous change of the virus. It also recommended that the elderly people shall be keen to take seasonal vaccines so as to enhance their immunity against diseases and complications of severe infection.

The ministry explained that the groups most vulnerable to complications when infected with seasonal influenza are those who suffer from chronic diseases; those taking medications that weaken immunity; those in the age group of 50 years and above; children in the age group between 6 months and 5 years; pregnant women, in addition to people with severe obesity and those working in the healthcare sector.

The ministry stressed that the seasonal influenza vaccine is safe and necessary, especially for the aforementioned groups, as it has proven highly effective in reducing the risk of severe disease complications, reaching intensive care and the risk of death resulting from it.

The ministry stressed the need to take preventive measures against seasonal influenza such as taking the vaccine, washing hands well, avoiding direct contact with eyes and mouth, using tissues when sneezing or coughing, and ensuring cleanliness of the place. It noted that taking the vaccine plays an important role in protecting against severe symptoms at a high rate, and the vaccine also protects the family environment from the groups most vulnerable to infection and complications.

Through its ongoing efforts, the Ministry of Health seeks to increase the number of vaccinated people, reduce the rate of infections, and the number of people hospitalized due to seasonal influenza.