UAE Celebrates Three Decades of Polio-Free Status with Continued Commitment to Global Health

Strategic Insights -

The UAE has made significant strides in combatting polio, a milestone attributed to the implementation of an effective surveillance system and high vaccination coverage by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP). Dr. Hussain Al Rand, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Public Health Sector, emphasized the country's three-decade polio-free status during a World Polio Day scientific symposium co-organized with the World Health Organisation (WHO). The event aimed to promote awareness and share best practices in epidemiological surveillance, highlighting the pivotal role of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in supporting global health initiatives.

Key Takeaways:

  • The UAE has been polio-free for over three decades due to the implementation of an effective surveillance system and high vaccination coverage by MoHAP and its partners.
  • The country's strategy to combat polio focuses on preventive and proactive measures, including comprehensive immunization for children under the National Immunisation Programme.
  • The UAE works in close collaboration with the WHO to advance global initiatives, including the 'Reaching the Last Mile' initiative aimed at eradicating polio.
  • President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has provided generous support to global health initiatives, particularly through his backing of the 'Reaching the Last Mile' initiative.
  • The UAE's leadership has committed to strengthening preventive and public health systems, unifying national efforts to achieve the 'We the UAE 2031' Vision.
  • The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has organized a series of awareness and scientific initiatives to enhance prevention against infectious diseases and ensure the sustainability of national efforts to keep the UAE polio-free.
  • The country's health surveillance system is being strengthened to detect and respond swiftly to suspected cases of poliomyelitis.

Statistics:

  • Over three decades of polio-free status
  • High vaccination coverage: [Insert specific percentage coverage rate, if stated in the original text]
  • Number of participants in the World Polio Day scientific symposium: [Insert specific number, if stated in the original text]
  • Number of collaborative initiatives between the UAE and the WHO: [Insert specific number, if stated in the original text]
  • Funding for the 'Reaching the Last Mile' initiative from President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan: [Insert specific amount or value, if stated in the original text]

Sources:

  • The event was co-organized with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and several health authorities across the UAE.
  • The statements were made during a scientific symposium on World Polio Day in collaboration with the WHO and several health authorities across the UAE.