Health experts in the UAE are urging residents to get their flu shots early in the season for optimal protection, with higher doses available for seniors.
This advice is timely, as flu activity usually peaks between September and March.
How long does immunity take to develop?
Doctors emphasize that it takes about two weeks for the body to build strong immunity after receiving the vaccination.
“To fully benefit from the flu shot, people should not delay until they become ill or the season peaks,” said Dr. Nada Al Marzouqi, Director of Public Health and Prevention at MoHAP. “We encourage everyone to vaccinate early in the season.”
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This reminder was issued during the launch of the National Seasonal Flu Awareness Campaign 2025-26 on Thursday.
Now in its tenth year, the campaign has increased awareness, with more residents, especially high-risk groups, getting vaccinated sooner.
In response, Abu Dhabi has implemented a centralized alert system notifying healthcare workers to recommend the flu vaccine when high-risk patients register at any medical facility in the emirate.
“We’ve seen increased participation among children under five, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses,” Dr. Al Marzouqi added. “This indicates the community is more proactive about prevention.”
Photo: Nandini Sircar
Vaccines updated annually
“The seasonal influenza vaccine is crafted to provide immunity against the most common viruses and is updated annually to match the anticipated strains,” she added.
According to MoHAP, the influenza vaccine is readily available at healthcare centers and hospitals nationwide. It is offered in two forms: a standard dose for the general population and a high-dose for adults over 65 with weaker immune systems.
Dr. Ayesha Khalifa AlBasti, Head of the Family Medicine Department at Dubai Public Health, stated, “The vaccine is free for UAE citizens, while expats may access it through their insurance.”
Affordability and accessibility have improved coverage rates across the emirates. “There’s been a particularly strong uptake among healthcare providers and children,” said Dr. Badreya Al Shehhi, Director of Communicable Disease Control and Prevention at Abu Dhabi Public Health Center.
Health authorities stress that residents should prioritize vaccination this season — not only for personal protection but also to reduce flu spread in families, workplaces, and schools.
This year’s campaign supports the ‘Year of Community’ objectives by targeting key societal groups. Officials noted that tailored mechanisms have been developed to reach these groups through field teams and customized awareness initiatives, ensuring inclusivity and vaccine access.
Diverse field activities
The campaign emphasizes vaccinating high-risk groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses, children under five, and healthcare workers, with vaccines available at government health centers. Vaccines are also available to all residents aged six months and older, ensuring comprehensive community coverage.
Besides vaccination drives, the initiative includes awareness events, digital content production, and unified media messages. These are broadcasted through TV, social media, and other platforms in multiple languages to reach all societal segments and reinforce key health messages.
Invest in artificial intelligence
Dr. Shamsa Lootah highlighted that the National seasonal influenza awareness campaign reflects the UAE’s commitment to advancing public health and community safety. She noted that the campaign’s decade-long continuity shows the UAE’s social responsibility and its aim for a more sustainable, prevention-focused healthcare system.
She emphasized that preventive initiatives are executed within a comprehensive national framework covering all healthcare facilities, ensuring preventive services reach every community member. Lootah stressed that the campaign focuses on “community awareness” about preventing seasonal illnesses, promoting healthy practices, and encouraging vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic diseases, to proactively get vaccinated as the first line of defense for their health.
She added that, through strategic partnerships with healthcare entities nationally and internationally, Emirates Health Services continues investing in artificial intelligence and advanced technologies to enhance preventive programs and improve healthcare services’ efficiency and quality.
