The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has emphasized the importance of the initiative launched by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to promote and support the global polio eradication program through vaccination campaigns in both Pakistan and Afghanistan.
During the 36th meeting of the WHO Regional Certification Commission for Poliomyelitis Eradication for Countries of the Eastern Mediterranean Region, the ministry said that Sheikh Mohamed’s initiatives reaffirm the UAE’s commitment to playing its full role in addressing health challenges around the world, and achieving the ultimate goals of the global polio eradication strategy at the international level.
The meeting was hosted by the UAE to discuss the latest developments, and the annual reports of various countries as well as to review the current situation and developments of the polio eradication strategy in the region and to come up with recommendations that support the global strategy.
Dr. Nada Hassan Al Marzooqi, Director of Public Health and Prevention Department, MoHAP, and Dr. Yagoub Al Mazrou, Chairman of the Regional Certification Committee for Polio Eradication for Eastern Mediterranean Region, took part in the meeting in addition to members of the technical team of the World Health Organization, and representatives of the member states of the Committee.
95% Vaccination Coverage
Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Nada Al Marzooqi stressed that the UAE pays utmost attention to developing national programs for monitoring and detecting any cases of acute flaccid paralysis, in accordance with the World Health Organization’s guidelines, adding that MoHAP and other health authorities are cooperating to maintaining high polio vaccination coverage of more than 95%.
“The ministry will spare no effort to improve the polio surveillance system to immediately report any acute flaccid paralysis cases as soon as they are discovered in any health facilities,” Al Marzooqi said.
Global Role Model
She noted that the UAE has excelled in combating the illness and has become a regional and international role model in polio eradication and control. The UAE will continue to activate the national response plan to brace for facing any suspected cases coming from outside the country.
Suspected cases will be handled accurately, scientifically, and in accordance with global best practices, Dr. Nada stated, lauding the great efforts made by the WHO Regional Committee for the Eradication of Polio in the Eastern Mediterranean Countries as well as the contribution of every individual working on the national health security initiatives in every nation.