The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has launched its National Seasonal Influenza Vaccination and Awareness Campaign, which will run until March 2027. The campaign is being conducted in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), and public, semi-government and private healthcare facilities across Qatar.
The campaign aims to protect public health and reduce influenza-related complications ahead of the winter season, when flu infections typically increase. This year’s initiative places particular emphasis on protecting vulnerable groups, including adults aged 50 and above, children aged six months to five years, pregnant women, healthcare workers, and people living with chronic conditions such as diabetes and asthma.
The seasonal flu vaccine is available free of charge at PHCC centres, HMC health facilities and more than 50 private healthcare facilities across Qatar. Eligible individuals can visit any PHCC centre to receive their vaccination without a prior appointment. Fast-track procedures have also been introduced to simplify access to vaccination and reduce waiting times.
Dr. Hamad Eid Al Romaihi, Director of the Health Protection and Communicable Diseases Control Department at MoPH, said the annual campaign reflects Qatar’s commitment to protecting public health and supporting the objectives of the National Health Strategy through preventive healthcare and national vaccination programmes.
Dr. Al Romaihi explained that the influenza vaccine is updated annually because flu viruses continue to evolve. The World Health Organization develops recommendations for vaccines targeting the strains expected to circulate during the upcoming season.
He encouraged people to receive the updated vaccine every year before winter begins, ideally in October or November. According to MoPH, the body takes approximately two weeks to develop full immunity following vaccination.
Influenza can cause serious health complications, including pneumonia, and may worsen existing chronic conditions. The ministry is therefore urging citizens and residents, particularly those at higher risk, to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
MoPH also encourages other community members to receive the seasonal flu vaccine to help reduce the spread of infection and protect public health. As part of the wider initiative, the ministry is conducting an internal vaccination campaign for its employees to support a healthy and safe working environment.
