The Ministry of Public Health, Qatar on its Twitter account mentioned that the seasonal Flu vaccine available in Qatar is safe.

Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal, Head of the Infectious Diseases Division at HMC

“The seasonal influenza vaccine is currently available in Qatar and is the same vaccine we import every year from prestigious companies such as Abbott and Sanofi. pic.twitter.com/uKpfaFzztY

— وزارة الصحة العامة (@MOPHQatar) October 22, 2020

"We have been providing the influenza vaccine for many years and we have had a positive experience with these companies. Moreover, this vaccine is used by many countries around the world, including USA and EU countries."

Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal, Chair of the National Health Strategic Group on COVID-19 and Head of Infectious Diseases at Hamad Medical Corporation also mentioned that since the beginning of October, more than 20,000 people have been vaccinated most of whom are healthcare workers at Hamad Medical Corporation and the Primary Health Care Corporation.

They have also begun offering vaccines to those aged 50 years and above, children from 6 months to 5 years of age, people with chronic diseases, and pregnant women at all stages of pregnancy.

"This vaccination is safe. Reported side effects can include slight pain at the injection site and a low-grade fever, but these side effects are only reported in a small percentage of people who get the vaccine.

It is important to highlight that the flu virus that will be spreading this winter is different from the flu virus that circulated last winter.

It is also important to note that the flu virus can cause severe illness for some people, especially those at increased risk for developing influenza-related complications."

Additional:

• Why a flu shot is necessary this year amid the ongoing COVID-19 in Qatar
• Qatar launches Seasonal Influenza Campaign

Source: The Ministry of Public Health Qatar

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Binu Cherian

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