Categories: Health

Maccabi Health Urges Public to Get Flu Vaccination This Winter

Maccabi Health Urges Public to Get Flu Vaccination This Winter

Flu Vaccination Campaign Under Way Across Maccabi Health Services

Maccabi Health Services is urging the public to get vaccinated against influenza as winter approaches. The organization highlighted strong participation in its annual flu vaccination drive, with last year’s program vaccinating about 450,000 members—a 16% increase from the campaign two years earlier, when roughly 400,000 members were vaccinated across the country. The data also show that the age group with the highest vaccination rate last year was adults aged 65 and over, at 50%, followed by pregnant women at 27%.

Last Season’s Numbers and What They Tell Us

The flu shot campaign continues to gain traction, reflecting growing public awareness of influenza risks and the protective value of vaccination. The 450,000 vaccinations last season indicate a robust uptake among Maccabi members, with continued emphasis on reaching vulnerable populations before the winter peak. Health leaders stress that higher vaccination coverage translates to fewer severe cases and hospitalizations, easing the burden on the broader healthcare system.

Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine?

While vaccination is beneficial for everyone, Maccabi highlights particular risk groups that stand to gain the most from protection: adults 65 and older, pregnant women, children, and people with chronic conditions. These populations face a higher risk of complications from influenza and should prioritize vaccination as a frontline defense against winter illnesses.

Voices From the Frontlines

Sigalit Avraham, Nurse Manager of the Flu Vaccination Campaign in the North District of Maccabi Health Services, emphasizes safety and effectiveness: “The flu vaccine is a safe and effective vaccine that can prevent winter illness and even save lives. The best way to protect against influenza and its possible complications is to get vaccinated. We encourage everyone to visit our clinics and get their shot, especially people in risk groups.”

Alon Alferovitz, Head of the Northern District, who was among the first to receive the vaccine, stated: “We are calling on the public to get vaccinated. The flu vaccine can prevent winter illness and save lives.” Dr. Gal Barri, the Regional Physician for Maccabi in the North, added: “The influenza vaccine significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and complications. We urge everyone to get vaccinated.”

Accessibility and How to Get Vaccinated

In line with its commitment to public health, Maccabi notes that the influenza vaccine is available and accessible to all members across its network. The organization invites the public to take responsibility for their health and to protect themselves and their families by getting vaccinated at local clinics and healthcare centers nationwide.

Take Action: Protect Yourself This Winter

With winter approaching, health officials emphasize that vaccination is the most effective defense against flu-related illness and its potential complications. Getting vaccinated not only protects the individual but also reduces transmission within households and communities. To locate a Maccabi clinic near you, visit your member portal or contact a local clinic directly. Your decision to vaccinate can contribute to a healthier winter season for everyone.