As flu season approaches, healthcare experts in Qatar are emphasizing the importance of pregnant women getting the flu vaccine to protect themselves and their unborn babies from potential health risks. Dr. Huda Abdulla Al Saleh, a Senior Consultant Obstetrics and Gynecology at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) Women’s Wellness and Research Center, warns that the flu can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, hospitalization, and premature birth for pregnant women. By getting vaccinated, pregnant women can mitigate the risks associated with the flu virus and ensure the health and safety of themselves and their newborns.
The flu vaccine is safe and effective for pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy. It helps to build immunity against the flu virus, reducing the risk of infection and transmission to newborns in Qatar. Dr. Al Saleh recommends pregnant women to get vaccinated early before the flu season begins to ensure continuous protection throughout the season. She highlights that the flu vaccine is extensively researched and has been safely administered to millions of pregnant women worldwide for many years without causing harm to the mothers or their babies. Additionally, women who receive the flu vaccine during pregnancy pass on some protection to their babies, which can last for the first few months of their lives.
In Qatar, people can receive the flu vaccine at Primary Health Care Centers, private clinics, and during outpatients’ appointments at HMC facilities. Dr. Al Saleh urges patients to request the flu vaccine during their scheduled appointments and emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated as soon as possible. Booking an appointment for the flu vaccine is simple, as individuals can call 107 for information or visit their nearest Primary Health Care Center. The vaccine is also available at over 30 private clinics across Qatar, and patients attending outpatients’ (OPD) appointments at HMC facilities can ask their physician for the flu vaccine.
During flu season, pregnant women in Qatar are particularly vulnerable to the flu virus and its potential complications. By prioritizing the flu vaccine, pregnant women can protect themselves and their unborn babies from serious health risks such as pneumonia and premature birth. Dr. Al Saleh encourages pregnant women to get vaccinated early to ensure continuous protection throughout the flu season. The flu vaccine is safe and effective for pregnant women at all stages of pregnancy and has been extensively researched and administered to millions of pregnant women worldwide without causing harm. Patients in Qatar can easily access the flu vaccine at Primary Health Care Centers, private clinics, and during outpatients’ appointments at HMC facilities, making it convenient for individuals to prioritize their health and safety during flu season.
