Where to get a flu jab in Dubai as influenza campaign begins

Health authorities are offering vaccinations at a number of venues as part of their seasonal influenza campaign

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  The National's Nick Webster receives a flu jab from nurse Resy Hussain at Prime Hospital in Dubai. Medics urged the public to get vaccinated this winter, which may help to prevent confusion between flu and Covid-19 symptoms. Pawan Singh / The National

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  The vaccine costs patients between Dh25 and Dh70 in most UAE clinics and hospitals. Pawan Singh / The National

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  Dr Adel Mohamed Yasin Alsisi, a consultant in critical care at Prime Hospital, said elderly, children and those with underlying medical conditions should take the flu vaccine this winter. Pawan Singh / The National

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  Nurse Resy Hussain gives the flu shot to patient Flora Mae. Pawan Singh / The National

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  The vaccine does not give any protection against Covid-19, but could ease the burden on doctors this winter. Victor Besa / The National

Health officials in Dubai are urging the public to roll up their sleeves and get a flu shot this winter after launching a new seasonal influenza campaign.

Residents across the emirate can now be vaccinated at a number of medical centres operated by Dubai Health Authority.

The authority is offering vaccinations for Dh50 to all Dubai residents and free of charge for Emirati citizens, those aged 65 and above, children below five, pregnant women and people with disabilities.

Officials have stressed the importance of members of the public getting their flu jab, in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Guarding against influenza could help ease the burden on hospitals treating Covid-19 patients.

Dr Hend Al Awadi, head of health promotion at Dubai Health Authority, said at the launch of the influenza initiative last month that there are similarities between cases of flu and Covid-19.

"If someone suspects they have either virus, they should take all the precautionary measures and go to their nearest health facility," she said.

"The doctor there will do a proper investigation to check which virus the patient has.

"A PCR test will only be used for a suspected case of Covid-19. The doctor can do others tests to diagnose influenza."

Dr Farida Al Khaja, chief executive of DHA's clinical support services and nursing sector, said the campaign aims to encourage more people to get their flu jab, especially those who are at a higher risk of developing influenza complications.

Where can I get vaccinated?

DHA is offering vaccinations on a walk-in basis at its medical fitness centres in Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), Uptown Mirdif and City Walk (Smart Salem Centre) from Sunday to Thursday, 7am to 7.30pm.

Emiratis and residents can also call 800 342 to book a vaccination appointment at a number of DHA primary healthcare centres.

Al Badaa, Al Lusaily, Al Mankhool, Al Safa, Nad Al Sheba, Zabeel, Mizhar and Twar primary health care centres are open Sunday to Thursday from 7:30am to 9:30pm.

Al Mamzar Health Centre, which caters to women and pregnant women only, is also open from 7:30am to 9:30pm.

Al Barsha and Nad Al Hamar 24/7 centres will only offer vaccination services between 7:30am to 9:30pm.