The Ministry of Public Health has stated that seasonal influenza vaccines can lower the risk of contracting the flu by approximately 60% in adults and 75% in children. As part of an awareness initiative, the Ministry encourages the public to receive vaccines, emphasizing it as the most effective method to safeguard against the flu. The Ministry highlights the serious consequences of the flu, including hospitalization and death, with over 760 hospitalizations due to the flu reported in Qatar in 2022.

In addition to promoting vaccination, the Ministry advises individuals who contract the flu to avoid social gatherings, dispose of tissues properly, practice good hygiene, wear masks, get sufficient rest, stay hydrated, and, after recovering, to take the vaccine. Dr. Soha Al Bayt, Director of the Health Emergency Department at MoPH, emphasizes in a video message that free flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available at numerous health facilities in Qatar.

Free flu vaccines are accessible at 90 health facilities, including 31 Health Centers, outpatient clinics at Hamad Medical Corporation, and various semi-government and private hospitals and clinics across the country. With the onset of winter, the Ministry encourages vaccination to protect against the increased circulation of upper respiratory viruses.

Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal, Head of Infectious Diseases at HMC, warns that respiratory infections such as the flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19 share similar symptoms and recommends staying home if experiencing these symptoms. The Ministry cautions against the use of antibiotics for influenza, emphasizing the viral nature of the illness and the need for rest and symptom management for viral infections.