The Health Ministry reports that it has purchased some 485,000 additional doses of flu vaccine, which landed at Ben Gurion Airport and will be distributed to health maintenance organizations across the country in the next few days.
The ministry also says that it has distributed masks, vaccines, and flu diagnostic tests to 255 nursing homes to reduce severe morbidity and prevent widespread outbreaks among vulnerable populations.
Over the past four weeks, five children have died from the disease.
Although the flu vaccine does not completely prevent infection, it significantly reduces the risk of serious illness and complications. The ministry recommends that the entire population be vaccinated as soon as possible. The vaccine is available free of charge through health insurance providers.
The ministry also recommends that at-risk populations consider wearing masks in closed spaces and in public places. In addition, masks are recommended for medical staff and visitors to nursing homes and geriatric institutions, to protect residents and staff.
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