KUWAIT CITY, Oct 29: Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, confirmed on Wednesday that the recent uptick in respiratory illnesses across the country is consistent with expected seasonal patterns. He added that the increase is within the normal range and does not pose any alarming concerns.

Speaking in a press statement, Dr. Al-Sanad explained that approximately 75 percent of the reported cases are attributed to the Influenza A virus. These findings were based on data from the National Digital Platform for Respiratory Disease Surveillance (EmFlu), which tracks illness trends and informs public health responses.

Official spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad

The spokesperson noted that alongside influenza, other respiratory viruses such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and several seasonal bacterial infections have also been observed in the country. However, he reassured the public that the rise in cases remains within the usual limits for this time of year.

Dr. Al-Sanad praised the EmFlu platform, highlighting its role as a significant advancement in Kuwait's health surveillance system. The platform, he said, not only enhances the speed of health responses but also serves as an effective tool for early detection and timely warnings.

In line with ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of seasonal respiratory illnesses, Dr. Al-Sanad emphasized the continued national vaccination campaign. The initiative has already benefited more than 67,000 individuals in its first month. He added that vaccination services are available at over 75 locations across the country, with 15 new centers recently opened to increase accessibility and ensure broader coverage.

He reiterated the importance of vaccination as the first line of defense in protecting both individuals and the wider community. "This campaign reflects the nation’s collective responsibility to safeguard public health and protect our society from preventable diseases," he said.

The Ministry of Health continues to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that all necessary measures are in place to manage respiratory illnesses during the seasonal peak.