Abu Dhabi's Flu Vaccination Efforts Reach 350,000

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

The Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) has achieved a remarkable milestone in its 2025–2026 seasonal influenza campaign, in collaboration with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), by vaccinating over 350,000 residents thus far. This figure represents the highest vaccination uptake in the past few seasons and underscores a critical initiative to safeguard community health.

Taking place from September 2025 to March 2026, the campaign aims to mitigate flu infections, protect high-risk populations, and enhance overall community immunity during the winter months. This year’s vaccination numbers have more than doubled compared to the 2022–2023 season, where 162,761 individuals were immunized.

In an effort to increase vaccine accessibility, ADPHC has mobilized teams across various locations, including malls, majlis, workplaces, embassies, and government offices, and has complemented this with proactive community awareness initiatives. Ongoing activations in malls across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra, alongside sessions at local majlis, are instrumental in broadening the campaign's reach. Priority is extended to older adults, children, pregnant women, those with chronic conditions, and frontline personnel.

Furthermore, ADPHC emphasizes essential personal preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, proper respiratory hygiene, and minimizing contact with sick individuals, while also advising anyone feeling unwell to stay home. When paired with vaccination, these strategies significantly curb the transmission of the flu virus.

Current health reports indicate that the majority of hospital admissions for flu-related complications involve unvaccinated patients, particularly among older adults, children, and individuals with chronic health issues. This trend is consistent with global research affirming the vaccine’s role in preventing severe disease and hospitalization.

HE Dr. Rashed Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADPHC, commented: “The surpassing of 350,000 vaccinations reflects Abu Dhabi’s dedication to preventive health and community welfare. We urge everyone to get vaccinated to protect themselves and those around them.”

Seasonal influenza remains a leading global respiratory infection. Annual vaccination is widely endorsed as the most effective strategy to lessen illness, complications, and healthcare system strain. Updated vaccines are available in accordance with international health guidelines.

Residents are encouraged to obtain the flu vaccine from participating primary health facilities or through community vaccination booths distributed across the emirate. ADPHC is committed to broadening its outreach, monitoring health trends, and collaborating with partners to enhance public health readiness.