Health Ministry Urges Flu and RSV Shots for At-Risk Groups

Health authorities are calling on eligible residents and citizens across the Kingdom to receive their seasonal influenza vaccination, with a reminder that the shot is available free of charge at Ministry of Health health centers. Prices at private-sector providers may vary.

The influenza vaccine is recommended once a year, generally before the season that runs from October to January. Because the circulating virus strains change each year, the shot does not carry multi-year validity, and a new dose is advised every season to maintain protection.

Priority groups for the flu vaccine include people with chronic diseases, those aged over 50, children between 6 months and 5 years, pregnant women, people with severe obesity, and healthcare workers. Appointments can be booked through the Sehhaty app using the vaccination or adult vaccination clinic service. Those attending should bring their appointment details along with their national ID or resident ID to the selected health center. Where available, home influenza vaccination can also be requested through the Sanar application.

RSV vaccination

Separately, the RSV vaccine is recommended mainly for people aged 60 and older, particularly those with chronic heart or lung disease, weakened immunity, or residents of nursing facilities. A single RSV dose typically provides protection for at least two years. Booking is also done through Sehhaty, with the dose given at the nearest health center.

With the colder months approaching, the vaccination drive aims to reduce serious illness among the most vulnerable community members and ease pressure on health services during the peak respiratory season.

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