UAE flu vaccine bookings surge as families prepare for winter and seek early protection against seasonal influenza
DUBAI: Families across the UAE are booking flu vaccinations earlier this year as doctors encourage residents to protect themselves before the winter influenza season peaks. New figures from home healthcare provider Justlife show rising demand for flu vaccines, particularly among families with schoolchildren.
According to Justlife, at-home flu vaccination bookings in September 2026 exceeded those recorded during the same month last year. The company also reported that bookings between October and December 2025 were 2.7 times higher than during the corresponding period in 2024. These figures reflect Justlife’s services rather than nationwide vaccination rates.
Doctors Urge Early Flu Vaccination
Healthcare professionals recommend getting vaccinated before influenza begins circulating widely. The vaccine takes approximately two weeks to build protection, making October an important period for preventive healthcare.
Dr Bassem Shamseddine, specialist paediatrician at Mubadala Health Dubai, advised residents to receive annual influenza vaccinations because circulating virus strains change and immunity declines over time.
Children aged six months to eight years receiving their first influenza vaccination may require two doses, at least four weeks apart, depending on their vaccination history.
UAE Expands Seasonal Flu Awareness Campaign
The Ministry of Health and Prevention launched its 2026–2027 influenza awareness campaign in September. Running until March 2027, the initiative promotes vaccination, hygiene and protection against seasonal respiratory illnesses.
Health authorities particularly encourage vaccination among young children, pregnant women, older adults, healthcare workers and people with chronic conditions.
Abu Dhabi has also expanded vaccination access through healthcare facilities and community locations, while introducing nasal spray vaccines for eligible individuals.
Impact to Expect
Early vaccination could reduce severe influenza complications, hospitalisations and infection-related disruptions during winter.
Doctors advise parents to monitor symptoms including fever, body aches, breathing difficulties and unusual tiredness. Families should seek medical attention promptly when severe symptoms develop.
Residents can contact healthcare providers to confirm vaccine availability and appropriate vaccination schedules.
