Where can one get flu shots in the UAE? In the wake of “flu season,” be careful if you have a feverish itch in your throat or have developed a temperature suddenly. Getting a flu shot in the UAE is one of the best ways to ensure your health during this flu season, according to the Department of Health (DoH) in Abu Dhabi. A variety of vaccinations and simple precautions have been promoted by UAE health authorities throughout the changing seasons to keep people healthy.
As a precaution, the DoH states that flu vaccines in the UAE are updated annually so that continuous immunity can be guaranteed. A vaccination dose should be administered annually to individuals six months of age and older. Children under the age of nine should receive two doses separated by at least four weeks post the vaccination date. They are protected for up to two weeks following the vaccination.
Where Can One Get A Flu Shot In The UAE?
Abu Dhabi
You do not need to make an appointment for a flu shot in Abu Dhabi. Simply provide your Emirates ID and health insurance card at any public health facility and you can receive a free vaccine in Abu Dhabi.
Dubai
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) offers flu shots in Dubai to residents at its medical facilities. A Medical Record Number (MRN) is required to make an appointment. In the past two years, if you have received a COVID-19 vaccination at a DHA vaccine center, you would already have an MRN number. Following these instructions will guide you through the process of creating one if you do not already have one:
If you are interested in receiving a flu shot in Dubai, contact 800 DHA or download the “DHA” smartphone app for Apple and Android devices.
It costs Dh50 to get vaccinated in Dubai. It is, however, free for certain Dubai residents, such as those over 65, People of Determination, those suffering from chronic illness, and expectant mothers.
Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Sharjah, and Ajman
Emirates Health Services (EHS) has health facilities in Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain where residents can get flu vaccinations. It costs Dh50 to get vaccinated. A select group of UAE citizens, including seniors, People of Determination, chronically ill individuals, children under age 5, and pregnant women, are, however, free to receive this service.
How Flu Spreads?
Since seasonal influenza is an infectious and acute respiratory infection, knowing how it spreads will help you take the appropriate precautions. According to DHA, the virus spreads in several ways:
Coughing, sneezing, and talking are all examples of direct transmission. Transmission indirectly takes place when infected hands or items are touched and then touched by eyes, noses, or mouths.
How To Prevent Season Influenza?
UAE health officials recommend vaccination as the best approach to preventing the illness. You should also heed the following recommendations issued by the UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), however, to prevent contracting an infection:
- Vaccinate yourself against the flu.
- Take good care of your respiratory system. When coughing or sneezing, use a tissue and throw it away immediately.
- In case of fever or other influenza symptoms, self-isolate early to prevent the spreading of the illness.
- Whenever possible, keep a distance from sick people.
- Keep your fingers away from your eyes, nose, and mouth as much as possible.
- Surfaces and tools that are frequently used should be cleaned and sterilized.