ConnectForHealth - Cigna Healthcare
Welcome to ConnectForHealth, a monthly podcast powered by Cigna Healthcare.
Each episode explores vital topics around wellbeing, resilience, and modern healthcare through in-depth conversations with experts, leaders, and change-makers. ConnectForHealth brings you fresh insights, inspiring stories, and practical tools to help you thrive - inside and out.
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ConnectForHealth - Cigna Healthcare
Keep Flu at Bay with Immunity-Boosting Actions
Flu season is approaching — are you and your family prepared?
In this episode of ConnectForHealth - a series by mentl in partnership with Cigna Healthcare Middle East & Africa - host Scott Armstrong, Founder of mentl, and co-host Maissa Al Khafajy, Head of Government Affairs and Strategic Communications at Cigna Healthcare, sit down with Dr. Rania Ayat Hawayek, Founder & Medical Director at Circle Care Clinic LLC.
Together, they explore how to keep flu at bay with practical, immunity-boosting actions. From the importance of flu vaccination to everyday lifestyle choices - sleep, hydration, nutrition, stress management, and even mental health - Dr. Rania shares evidence-based advice for both children and adults.
Whether you’re a parent navigating back-to-school season or an adult balancing work and wellness, this conversation offers powerful insights to help you and your loved ones stay resilient through flu season.
⏱️ Chapter List
- 00:00 – Welcome to ConnectForHealth
Introduction to the series and today’s topic. - 02:15 – Meet Dr. Rania Ayat Hawayek
Background and approach to whole-child wellness and prevention. - 05:00 – Is Flu Season Really a Concern in Sunny Countries?
Why viruses still thrive in the UAE despite year-round sunshine. - 09:30 – Flu Vaccine Myths & Realities
Separating fact from fiction — how vaccines actually strengthen immunity. - 14:15 – How to Tell the Difference Between Cold and Influenza
Key warning signs parents should never ignore. - 20:00 – The Domino Effect of Influenza on Families
Why one flu case can disrupt weeks of school, work, and family life. - 27:30 – Everyday Immunity Boosters
The role of sleep, hydration, nutrition, and vitamin D. - 33:45 – Can You Rely Too Much on Supplements?
Drawing the line between healthy support and overuse. - 38:20 – Stress, Sleep & Immunity
How mental health directly impacts physical resilience. - 45:00 – Audience Q&A
Dr. Rania answers member questions. - 55:00 – Key Takeaways
Final reflections on boosting immunity and preparing for flu season.