Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Beirut, Lebanon – The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and funded by the Partnership for Influenza Vaccine Introduction (PIVI), proudly launched the 2025 National Influenza Vaccination Campaign today at the Rafik Hariri University Hospital, under the patronage and presence of His Excellency the Minister of Public Health.
This campaign underscores a strengthened partnership aimed at protecting Lebanon’s most vulnerable populations from seasonal influenza and marks a critical step towards institutionalizing influenza vaccination within the national health system.
In her speech at the launch, Dr. Randa Hamadeh, Head of the Primary Healthcare Department at the Ministry of Public Health, emphasized the importance of this campaign and its role in enhancing immunization services provided to the most vulnerable groups. She also emphasized the ministry’s commitment to ensuring vaccines reach health centers.
His Excellency the Minister of Public Health Dr Rakan Nassereddine stated, “The national influenza vaccination campaign represents an essential preventive step to protect society, especially those most at risk, such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, people with chronic diseases, and healthcare workers. Thanks to close collaboration with the World Health Organization and UNICEF, and with support from the PIVI initiative, which provided vaccines, we are working to strengthen health preparedness and reduce the burden on the health system. Prevention remains our first step toward a healthier and safer society”.
At the launch, Dr. Abdinasir Abubakar, WHO Representative in Lebanon, highlighted the resilience of Lebanon’s health system in reaching vulnerable groups during last year’s campaign despite significant challenges such as conflict, displacement, and supply chain disruptions.
“Even in war, Lebanon showed that essential health services can reach the most vulnerable,” said Dr. Abubakar. “Protecting the vulnerable is not optional—it is lifesaving and cost-effective.”
The campaign introduces collaboration with private sector partners for the first time to support vaccine delivery and data collection, paving the way for the development of a national influenza vaccination policy and integration of seasonal vaccines into Lebanon’s routine immunization calendar.
“Starting next year, the Ministry of Public Health is expected to fully lead this campaign,” Dr. Abubakar added. “WHO will continue to provide technical support and ensure vaccine safety, standing alongside Lebanon on the path to a resilient and inclusive health system.”
Following the official launch, His Excellency the Minister of Public Health and Dr. Abdinasir Abubakar administered influenza vaccinations to several healthcare workers and vulnerable individuals on-site, symbolizing the campaign’s commitment to action and protection.
Vaccines continue to be available for eligible groups, including healthcare workers and high-risk individuals.
Members of the press are invited to attend and help amplify the campaign’s message:
“Protect Yourself. Protect Others. Get Vaccinated.”
This campaign is a joint effort by the World Health Organization, Ministry of Public Health, and supported through funding from the Partnership for Influenza Vaccine Introduction (PIVI).