Kuwait’s Ministry of Health launched its annual seasonal vaccination campaign on Wednesday, aiming to strengthen protection against respiratory illnesses during the winter months. The campaign was inaugurated by Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi at the Mubarak Al-Hassawi Specialized Health Center in the Hiteen area. It focuses on immunizing citizens and residents against seasonal influenza and pneumonia through vaccines available at 90 health centers and hospitals across the country.
The ministry highlighted the critical importance of receiving these vaccines, particularly for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, individuals with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, immunocompromised persons, and healthcare workers. Dr. Hamad Bastaki, head of the Infectious Diseases Control Department, emphasized vaccinations as the frontline defense against winter respiratory diseases. He noted that vaccinations significantly reduce infection rates, the severity of illness, and the incidence of complications that require hospitalization. The ministry has expanded vaccine availability at numerous healthcare facilities to ensure easy access.
In parallel, the Ministry of Health reaffirmed its preparedness for the new academic year’s school health services. The official spokesperson, Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad, reported that readiness measures are in place to provide a safe and healthy environment for students nationwide. The school health network operates through 946 school clinics and eight dedicated school health centers integrated within primary healthcare facilities. These centers provide student examinations, health record management, and vaccination services.
Dr. Al-Sanad detailed that the system is staffed with 72 doctors and 1,193 nursing personnel, most of whom are assigned directly to schools. The ministry conducts training programs during the summer months to enhance the staff’s capacity to manage student health efficiently and to adhere to established protocols. Ahead of the academic year, a joint campaign with the Ministry of Education targeted over 900 public schools to promote environmental health and ensure a safe educational setting.
School health services are designed not only to manage emergencies and medical care but also to support preventive health measures, awareness programs, and the monitoring of student growth and safety. The ministry encouraged parents to share accurate health information about their children, particularly regarding chronic illnesses, allergies, or ongoing medication, and to keep vaccinations and medical tests up to date. Additionally, parents were advised to ensure students receive adequate sleep, nutrition, and refrain from attending school when exhibiting symptoms of contagious illness.