The Health Ministry is preparing for the winter season and the expected increase in respiratory illnesses, with an emphasis on influenza, COVID-19 and RSV. The Ministry is calling on the public, particularly at-risk populations, to get vaccinated against the flu early rather than waiting for infection rates to rise.
Flu vaccines are already available at health funds throughout the country. At the same time, the Health Ministry has issued instructions to hospitals and health funds as part of a winter preparedness circular, which has been submitted for public comment through next week.
Hospitals are required to prepare for the expected increase in patient loads by reinforcing professional staffing, separating patients suffering from respiratory symptoms, and using protective equipment as necessary. Health funds have been instructed to expand the number of vaccination sites, increase outreach to their members, and prepare to extend operating hours and telemedicine services.
In addition, a campaign to distribute flu vaccines to approximately 400 locations across the country began last week. Vaccines are being delivered, among other places, to geriatric institutions, assisted-living facilities, and frameworks operated by the Welfare Ministry’s Disabilities Administration, with the aim of making them more accessible to at-risk populations.
The antiviral medication Tamiflu is also being distributed to geriatric institutions. The guidelines additionally address COVID-19 and pneumococcal vaccinations in accordance with medical indications, completing routine childhood vaccinations, and flu vaccination for healthcare workers.
Dr. Hagar Mizrahi, head of the Health Ministry’s Medical Division, said, “Every year, winter brings with it an increase in respiratory illnesses and greater pressure on the healthcare system, and therefore it is important to prepare early. Alongside the preparations by hospitals and health funds, we are calling on the public, and particularly at-risk populations, to get vaccinated against the flu early."
According to Mizrahi, vaccination is intended to reduce the risk of serious effects from the disease.
“The vaccine significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and complications," she said.