Overview: A Growing Flu Vaccination Campaign
As winter approaches, Maccabi Health Services is urging the public to get the flu vaccination. The organization highlights a robust vaccination drive across the country, emphasizing safety, effectiveness, and accessibility for all members. Vaccination is especially important for those at higher risk of complications from influenza.
Record Uptake and Growth
Last year, about 450,000 Maccabi members were vaccinated against influenza, marking a 16% increase from the campaign two years earlier, when nearly 400,000 were immunized nationwide. Data from the North District shows the vaccine campaign reached broad segments of the population, underscoring the ongoing commitment to winter health. Among last year’s recipients, the highest vaccination rate was among people aged 65 and older, at 50%, followed by pregnant women at 27%.
Voices from the Campaign
Sigalit Avraham, head nurse of the flu vaccination campaign in the North District, stated: “The influenza vaccine is a safe and effective shot that can prevent winter illnesses and even save lives. The best way to protect yourself from flu and its potential complications is vaccination. We encourage everyone to visit our clinics to get vaccinated, with special attention to high‑risk groups such as those aged 65 and above, pregnant women, children, and individuals with chronic illnesses.”
Alon Alperovitz, head of the North District, was among the first to receive the vaccine and echoed the message: “We’re calling on the public to come for vaccination. The flu vaccine can prevent winter illnesses and save lives.” Dr. Gil Bari, the district physician, added: “The flu vaccine significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and complications, and we urge everyone to get vaccinated.”
Who Should Get Vaccinated
Public health guidance from Maccabi emphasizes vaccination for everyone, with heightened focus on those most vulnerable to influenza. In addition to seniors and pregnant individuals, children and people with chronic health conditions are primary targets for protection through immunization. The vaccine’s safety and protective benefits are underscored by local health professionals, encouraging timely access to vaccination at Maccabi clinics across the country.
Why Vaccination Matters
Beyond personal protection, influenza vaccination helps reduce hospitalizations and severe outcomes during flu season. By lowering the overall burden of illness, the vaccination campaign supports families, workplaces, and the broader community, particularly those with limited access to healthcare resources.
Availability and Access
According to Maccabi, the influenza vaccine is readily available to all members at their clinics. The health system stresses that vaccination is a simple, proactive step that can prevent a range of winter health issues and protect dependents and caregivers as well.
Take Action: Protect Yourself and Your Family
Healthcare professionals remind the public that vaccination is an effective, accessible defense against influenza. By getting vaccinated, individuals contribute to a healthier winter for themselves and their loved ones. The call to action is clear: visit a Maccabi clinic, get the flu shot, and encourage family members and friends, especially those in high‑risk groups, to do the same.
Conclusion
With strong uptake in recent years and a clear public health message from leaders and clinicians, the flu vaccination campaign remains a cornerstone of winter health. Vaccination is safe, effective, and accessible—an essential step in protecting individuals and the broader community from influenza this season.
