JERUSALEM — Israel’s Health Ministry urged the public on Monday to get vaccinated against the flu after health experts reported signs that this year’s flu season is beginning earlier and hitting harder than usual, especially among children.
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The recommendation came after the Pandemic Management Team convened Sunday night to assess flu activity in Israel and compare it with global data. Officials said international trends suggest a challenging winter with higher illness rates.
Participants from hospitals, clinics, academic institutions and the ministry briefed the panel on the latest findings. They emphasized that while the flu vaccine cannot prevent every infection, it remains the most effective tool for reducing severe complications and hospitalizations.
Doctors advised anyone with symptoms to remain home until fully recovered and urged parents not to send sick children to school or daycare in order to curb transmission.
The ministry noted that the vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older and is available free of charge through Israel’s health funds. Further discussions are planned on ways to increase vaccination uptake and address additional concerns raised by experts.