SSSD launches fifth flu vaccine drive for seniors, disabled

November 05, 2025 / 10:07 AM

Sharjah24: For the fifth consecutive year, the Sharjah Social Services Department (SSSD) has launched its seasonal influenza vaccination campaign targeting senior citizens and people of determination across the Emirate of Sharjah. The initiative, which runs until the end of December 2025, is part of the department’s ongoing “Home Vaccination Initiative," ensuring health protection and comfort for elderly citizens within their homes.

Comprehensive home-based vaccination service

According to Kholoud Al Ali, Director of the Senior Citizens Services Centre at the department, the campaign aims to vaccinate 2,000 beneficiaries, helping to protect them from the seasonal influenza virus, which typically peaks before winter.

The home care team will visit registered individuals directly at their residences after scheduling appointments through the department’s hotline (800700). Last year’s campaign successfully vaccinated 422 individuals across Sharjah and its affiliated regions.

Strong collaboration with Ministry of Health and Prevention

Al Ali praised the department’s continuing partnership with the Ministry of Health and Prevention, noting that the campaign—launched in 2021—relies on the ministry’s supply of influenza vaccines. These vaccines are delivered in batches and distributed through pharmacies at the Senior Citizens Services Centre headquarters and its branches in the Eastern and Central Regions.

Citizens can contact the department via the hotline to book an appointment and organise a home visit to receive the vaccine. Each visit includes a health assessment prior to vaccination to ensure the process is safe and effective.

Data-driven approach for better service delivery

Al Ali stated that the campaign now operates on a systematic, data-driven approach, utilising an updated database of senior citizens and people of determination who have previously received the vaccine through the programme. This allows the department to identify individuals’ health conditions and streamline scheduling and follow-up care effectively.

The home care team visits citizens aged 60 and above after they submit the required documents online through the Sharjah Social Services Department website. Coverage includes Sharjah city, Al Dhaid, Al Hamriyah, Al Madam, Al Bataeh, Kalba, Khorfakkan, Dibba Al Hisn, and Mleiha.

Enhancing health protection and wellbeing

The annual flu vaccination campaign is part of the department’s broader efforts to protect and support senior citizens in partnership with national healthcare bodies. By providing free, home-based influenza vaccinations, the initiative promotes preventive healthcare, safeguards the wellbeing of elders and people of determination, and strengthens the department’s aim to deliver safe, accessible, and family-centred medical care across the emirate.