KUWAIT CITY, Oct 2: As part of its ongoing national efforts to prevent seasonal illnesses and safeguard public health, the Ministry of Health has launched its annual winter vaccination campaign for the tenth year in a row, according to spokesperson Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad.

In an official statement, Dr. Al-Sanad underscored the importance of protecting the public from seasonal infections during the colder months, highlighting it as a key priority for Kuwait’s healthcare system.

He noted that seasonal illnesses — caused by viruses and bacteria such as influenza and Streptococcus pneumoniae — are typically more prevalent in Kuwait from mid-September to May, with peak transmission occurring between October and March. These diseases can lead to severe health complications, especially among high-risk groups, including children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, those with chronic health conditions, and people with weakened immune systems.

To combat this, the ministry is providing the updated flu vaccine alongside a newly enhanced pneumococcal vaccine, which now offers protection against 20 different bacterial strains known to cause serious infections like pneumonia and meningitis.

Dr. Al-Sanad also noted that over 2.5 million vaccine doses have been administered in past campaigns, reflecting the ministry’s strong commitment to public health.