KUWAIT CITY, Sept 1: The Ministry of Health has officially launched its winter vaccination campaign for the year under the patronage of the Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi, at an event held at the Sayed Abdul Razzaq Al-Zalzalah Health Center. The launch was attended by Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health Affairs Dr. Munther Al-Hasawi.

Minister Al-Awadhi, who received the first doses of the vaccine during the event, emphasized that the campaign is a vital effort to safeguard public health and provide protection against infectious diseases that are more prevalent in the winter months. This year’s campaign features crucial vaccinations, including the seasonal influenza vaccine and the vaccine against bacterial pneumonia. These vaccines will be available at 57 locations, including preventive health departments in hospitals and numerous primary health care centers across the country’s governorates, to ensure widespread access.

Assistant Undersecretary Dr. Munther Al-Hasawi highlighted the significance of the influenza vaccine, noting that it is a crucial tool for preventing influenza and reducing the risk of severe complications that could lead to death. He explained that the vaccine's effectiveness can vary each year based on the circulating viral strains, the recipient's health, age, and the time elapsed since vaccination.

Dr. Al-Hasawi pointed out that winter brings an increase in infectious diseases such as colds, seasonal influenza, and bacterial pneumonia. Many countries experience a surge in these illnesses during the colder months, making preventive vaccination campaigns essential to curbing the spread and protecting vulnerable populations.

He identified high-risk groups, including individuals over 65, children under five, those with chronic diseases like heart and lung conditions and diabetes, as well as individuals with weakened immune systems, those on immunosuppressive medications, pregnant women, and health workers in contact with patients.

Dr. Al-Hasawi reiterated the principle that prevention is better than cure, emphasizing that vaccination is key to reducing infection rates. He expressed the Ministry's commitment to delivering top-notch health services and urged everyone to adhere to health guidelines and get vaccinated to ensure protection against infectious diseases throughout the winter season.