Emiratis and expatriate residents across the emirate of Abu Dhabi can get free flu vaccinations by visiting the primary healthcare centres of Abu Dhabi Health Services Company, SEHA, Health Authority - Abu Dhabi, HAAD, has announced.

This is in line with authority's efforts to reduce the spread of infectious diseases among members of the community in the emirate, HAAD said in a statement.

It stressed the importance of seasonal flu vaccination in easing symptoms associated with influenza, and its contribution toward making it less severe.

HAAD explained that the vaccination for seasonal influenza is given to all, with priority given to groups at high risk due to complications of the flu, including the elderly and those with chronic diseases, pregnant women and children less than five years of age, particularly under the age of two, as well as those working in the field of healthcare.

Dr. Farida Al Hosani, Manager of Communicable Disease at HAAD, confirmed that the keenness of the authority to launch initiatives to prevent and combat infectious diseases, was among the important goals of HAAD. "The authority is stepping up its efforts to highlight the seasonal flu vaccine, which is one of the best ways to prevent the flu, and its complications and reduce the spread of infection in the community."

HAAD has urged citizens and residents to take the seasonal flu vaccine before the winter season, which abounds with flu cases. This will help in protecting against influenza and reduce complications for a period of up to a year, she said.