The minimum time between taking a Covid vaccine and a seasonal flu (cold and flu) vaccine should be at least three weeks, a health official said on Monday.
While taking both vaccines is essential, Dr Farida Al Hosani, executive director of the infectious disease sector at the Abu Dhabi Public Health Center, said the two are completely different in composition.
“The influenza vaccine contains inactivated particles of the influenza virus, while the Covid vaccines have different manufacturing methods depending on the company that makes them and contain components of Covid-19. We urge the community to get vaccinated as soon as possible after respecting the recommended three week interval, ”she said.
Dr Farida spoke at the launch of the annual 2021 National Seasonal Influenza Awareness Campaign, promoted by the Department of Health and Prevention (Mohap) under the slogan “Protect Yourself … Protect Your Community “.
Seasonal influenza is a rapidly transmitted disease and the onset of the disease is most observed during the winter months, October to April in the United Arab Emirates.
The virus is spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks, sending droplets of the virus into the air. Other methods of transmission involve touching surfaces or materials contaminated with the influenza virus and then touching the mouth, nose or eyes.
Mohap officials also announced free vaccinations, starting this month, for people at high risk in the United Arab Emirates. Everyone else can get the flu shot for a nominal fee of 50 Dh at government health centers and private hospitals in the United Arab Emirates.
Explaining the high-risk groups who are most vulnerable to catching the airborne influenza virus, Dr Farida said: “The vaccine is given free of charge to pregnant women, children under five, people over the age of five. 60 years old and to patients. who have other co-morbidities, such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, and healthcare workers. In addition, all residents (Emiratis) will receive the vaccine free of charge and it will provide adequate protection against influenza throughout the season. “
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The campaign, which was launched at a press conference Monday at the InterContinental Dubai, Festival City, aims to promote health awareness among all members of society about the importance of the seasonal flu shot. .
Saman Haziq
