The COVID-19 pandemic is not the only disease that needs to be addressed during these times. This is the message by the Abu Dhabi government to its 1.48 million residents when it announced that it will be providing free vaccination for everyone.
This initiative is part of the public campaign, “Protect yourself, Protect Your Community” launched by the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, and Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre.
Gov’t to Provide Free Flu Vaccine Shots to Abu Dhabi Residents
In line with this, the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (Seha) will provide free influenza vaccination to all residents. The UAE’s largest healthcare network said that it will be offering the seasonal influenza vaccine at all its healthcare facilities starting Monday, October 26.
It noted that as part of the campaign, a drive-through option will be made available in select centers. Moreover, the Seha noted that it will even offer shots at residents’ homes in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain if needed.
The joint campaign between the MoHaP and Seha aims to raise awareness about the vaccine’s integral role in the prevention of seasonal influenza. The initiative also emphasizes the importance of immunization for employees in the healthcare sector.
To receive the shot, Abu Dhabi residents may call the Seha’s call center via 80050 to book an appointment. Meanwhile, those who are visiting any of the Seha’s facilities for a Covid-19 test, “and are vulnerable”, will also be given the option to receive a flu shot.
And in line with the safety precautions observed in the emirate, those who wish to have the flu shot from their homes can do so by calling the Seha hotline (027117117) to book an appointment. The door-to-door service costs AED 500 per household regardless of the number of people to receive a flu shot.
According to Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, chief operations officer, ambulatory healthcare services, Seha, by working closely working with Seha’s partners, they were able to launch a comprehensive plan to ensure that all members of the community have easy and safe access to the vaccine during these challenging times.
Dr. Al Ghaithi said: “Both Covid-19 and influenza viruses exhibit similar symptoms, underlining the importance of getting immunized this year to stay protected and alleviate the pressure on the healthcare sector. When more people get vaccinated, healthcare professionals will be able to dedicate their efforts to manage the (challenges posed) … by Covid-19 and other critical medical conditions.”
In line with this, the Seha is also providing free flu shots to all its employees as part of the annual campaign.
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