With nights turning colder and Sukkos only days away, the end of summer is near as is this year’s flu season. In past years, the hallways and corridors of the nation’s hospitals were lined with flu patients as many major hospitals operated at over 100% capacity. This year, Health Ministry officials predict a significantly more serious strain of the flu R”L will result in a more difficult flu season.

Based on the flu that hit the southern hemisphere which is ending its winter, World Health Organization (WHO) and local medical experts attempt to predict the character and intensity of the annual flu season. WHO officials are reporting the flu that hit Australia this winter was particularly difficult, resulting in the most difficult flu season in that country since 2009. It is pointed out that other countries in the southern hemisphere, including New Zealand, were not hit as hard. Health officials in Israel however feel the upcoming season will be harsh and citizens are urged to come in now to get a flu vaccine. The nation’s kupot cholim have already begun immunizing subscribers with a vaccine that contains protection against a number of strains of the flu, including the one that hit Austria. The vaccines are given free of charge.

Health officials report 350,000 people have been vaccinated so far this year as compared to 1.44 million people who were vaccinated last year, representing 18% of the general population and 62% of the population 65 and older.

The shot is given in kupot cholim free of charge. It is especially recommended for children from six months to five-years-old, pregnant women, persons 65 and older and persons with chronic illnesses. Persons are advised to consult with their physician to determine if they should get vaccinated.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)