Last year’s flu vaccination drive shows strong uptake
Maccabi Health Services is calling on the public to get vaccinated against influenza as winter approaches. Last year, about 450,000 Maccabi members received the flu vaccine, marking a 16% rise from the previous vaccination campaign two years earlier, when nearly 400,000 members across the country were vaccinated. The figures highlight a growing public health emphasis on protecting the community against seasonal flu and its potential complications.
Analysis of the vaccination data also reveals that the population segment with the highest vaccination rate last year was those aged 65 and older, at 50%. Following closely were pregnant women, who accounted for 27% of vaccinations. These figures align with public health priorities that focus on protecting the most vulnerable groups from severe illness and hospitalization.
Who should consider the flu vaccine?
Health officials emphasize that the flu shot is a safe and effective defense against influenza. The vaccine helps prevent winter illnesses and can save lives by reducing the risk of serious complications. Maccabi’s public health messaging stresses reaching vaccination clinics, with special attention to high-risk groups, including people aged 65 and over, pregnant women, children, and individuals with chronic health conditions.
Voices behind the drive
Sigalit Avraham, a nurse and the manager of the flu vaccination campaign in the North District, stated, “The influenza vaccine is a safe and effective vaccine that can prevent winter illness and even save lives. The best defense against flu and its potential complications is vaccination. We encourage everyone to visit our clinics to get vaccinated, especially those in risk groups.”
Alon Alperovitz, head of the North District, was among the first to get vaccinated and urged the public to follow suit: “Please come to get vaccinated. The flu vaccine can prevent winter illness and save lives.”
Dr. Gil Bari, the district physician for the North, added, “The flu vaccine significantly lowers the risk of severe illness and complications. I urge everyone to get vaccinated.”
Accessibility and the path to protection
Maccabi emphasizes that the vaccine is available and accessible to all members. The health system is encouraging a proactive approach to personal and family health by promoting vaccination in clinics across the country. Receiving the flu shot is a practical step individuals can take to reduce the burden on themselves and the broader community during the winter months.
Why now matters
Flu vaccination remains a central pillar of winter health strategies. By lowering the likelihood of contracting influenza and by reducing the chance of serious complications, vaccination helps protect those who are most at risk and supports healthcare systems during peak season. In addition to protecting individuals, vaccination contributes to community resilience by limiting potential outbreaks.
Take action
If you are eligible, consider scheduling a flu shot at a Maccabi clinic. Vaccination is a simple, effective measure to safeguard your health and that of your loved ones. The campaign’s leaders reiterate the importance of vaccination for all, with particular emphasis on seniors, pregnant women, children, and people with chronic conditions.
