Risk of serious illness: Israel's Health Ministry appeals to the public

Israel's Health Ministry has called on the public to get vaccinated against the flu before the seasonal rise in morbidity begins. The ministry is preparing the healthcare system for the winter season, focusing on three infections: influenza, coronavirus, and RSV. Vaccines are already available at health funds, with the campaign covering 400 locations across the country.

Israel's Health Ministry has appealed to the public to get vaccinated against the flu as early as possible, without waiting for the start of the seasonal rise in morbidity. The recommendation primarily concerns people in risk groups, for whom the infection can lead to severe illness and complications. Vaccines are already available through health funds across the country. The ministry has begun preparing the healthcare system for the winter season, when an increase in the number of patients with respiratory diseases is expected. Special attention is being paid to three infections — influenza, coronavirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Hospitals have been instructed to prepare for a possible increase in workload, to arrange additional staff, and to organize isolation for patients with respiratory symptoms. Last week, vaccines began to be distributed to approximately 400 locations across the country. The campaign covers geriatric institutions, nursing homes, and facilities for people with disabilities. The antiviral drug Tamiflu is additionally being supplied to geriatric institutions. The head of the Health Ministry's medical department, Dr. Hagar Mizrahi, noted that vaccination significantly reduces the likelihood of severe flu and the development of complications.