She confirmed that there was not enough information about their common effects

Abu Dhabi Health Ministry warns of double infection with influenza and "Corona"

The Department of Health in Abu Dhabi stressed the need to take the flu vaccine this season, pointing out the risk of infection with seasonal influenza and the Coronavirus (Covid-19) at the same time, due to the lack of sufficient information about the effects of double infection with the two diseases.

Private hospitals and health centers in Abu Dhabi announced the provision of influenza vaccination at a price of 50 dirhams, while the vaccination will be available free of charge in government health centers as of the beginning of next month.

In detail, the department called for a flu vaccination to avoid contracting it, noting that it is difficult to differentiate between seasonal influenza and "Covid-19" in terms of their symptoms, which range from the absence of symptoms or the appearance of mild symptoms, to the emergence of severe symptoms and complications that may lead to death. .

She explained that distinguishing between the two injuries requires a laboratory examination.

She also stressed that "getting vaccination is necessary to reduce the possibility of double infection with influenza and (Covid-19), as there is not enough information currently available about the impact of joint infection."

The department also warned of the similarity in the methods of transmission of the two viruses that cause the two diseases, as both are transmitted from person to person through droplets from the infected when they cough, sneeze or speak, and when touching surfaces or tools contaminated with the virus, and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.

And she called for the same precautions to be taken to prevent infection, including the application of physical spacing as much as possible, and to ensure hand hygiene at all times.

The department said that “taking the influenza vaccine reduces unnecessary medical visits to hospitals, and allows the health sector to focus on addressing the Corona pandemic,” noting that “the influenza vaccine is approved, and it is highly recommended to take it every year.

On the other hand, there is no approved vaccine to prevent (Covid-19), but there are tests that are conducted for a number of vaccines in clinical trials, to ensure their effectiveness and safety.

The department confirmed that the seasonal influenza vaccine will be given to citizens and residents of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi free of charge in the health centers of the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA), Mubadala Health Care, and some medical centers in the private sector.

Private hospitals and health centers in the emirates of Abu Dhabi published promotional announcements about the availability of the flu vaccine, at a reduced price not exceeding 50 dirhams, calling on the public to speed up booking an appointment for vaccination.

Contraindications to taking the vaccine

The Department of Health in Abu Dhabi confirmed the necessity of taking an annual dose of influenza vaccine to reduce the possibility of contracting the disease and transmitting the infection.

She said that children under the age of nine need to take two doses, provided that the interval between them is no less than four weeks.

The department has identified five categories that the vaccination is prohibited, including:

Children under six months of age.

■ Those with severe allergies to any of the components of the vaccine.

■ Those with severe allergies after taking the vaccine beforehand.

■ People with Guillain-Barré syndrome.

■ People with severe or moderately severe symptoms, either with or without fever.

Pregnant complications

The Department of Health in Abu Dhabi stressed the importance of pregnant women receiving the seasonal influenza vaccine, as they are among the groups most vulnerable to complications when contracting influenza, and it is more likely that they will be admitted to hospital upon infection.

She emphasized that the seasonal flu vaccine is safe for pregnant women and their children.

She said that they can take it during any stage of pregnancy, warning that complications from influenza infection during pregnancy include premature labor, low fetal weight or death, while getting the flu vaccine helps provide protection for the fetus for up to six months after birth ( When an infant is not eligible for the flu shot.)

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