With the fluctuating weather conditions in the UAE, a growing number of residents are succumbing to infections such as Influenza. Typically prevalent during the winter season, both Influenza A and B strains circulate widely. In contrast, Influenza C can cause infections in humans throughout the year.
The Health Authority in Dubai strongly advises specific groups to receive the influenza vaccine due to an elevated risk of contracting the disease. These groups include:
- Healthcare providers
- Children aged 6 months to 5 years
- Elderly people aged 65 years and above
- Pregnant women at all stages of their pregnancy
- Pilgrims
- Individuals with chronic medical conditions like diabetes, heart diseases, lung diseases like asthma, chronic liver disease, chronic kidney disease.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that individuals aged 6 months and older should receive the annual influenza vaccine. While it may not provide 100% protection, it substantially reduces the severity of the illness if one does become infected
