TLDR:
UAE mandates measles booster for young children
Boosting immunity aligns with global health goals
Public-private collaboration enhances vaccine coverage
ABU DHABI (The Thursday Times) — In a decisive effort to enhance public health and ensure comprehensive protection against measles, the UAE government has mandated measles booster shots for children in kindergarten through Year 2 as part of the National Supplementary Measles Immunisation Campaign 2024. The initiative is a collaboration between the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), Emirates Health Services, the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, and the Dubai Health Authority, reflecting the country’s strategic approach to achieving high immunisation coverage. The campaign aims to reduce the risks of measles outbreaks and supports the UAE’s commitment to global health standards.
The initiative has been branded with the theme “Protect Yourself, Protect Your Community,” signifying the collective responsibility to safeguard society through immunisation. This campaign targets children aged 1 to 7, offering an additional booster dose of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine to bolster their immunity. Schools across the nation have urged parents to prioritise vaccinations, emphasising the critical role of early immunisation in preventing severe health complications and achieving long-term health benefits.
Focus on global health alignment
The campaign aligns with the UAE’s broader goal of contributing to global efforts to eradicate measles by 2030. The Ministry of Health and Prevention underscores the urgency of high vaccination rates, pointing out that the current strategy aims for 100% coverage within target groups. By adhering to protocols approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), the UAE ensures the highest safety and efficacy standards. According to Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Public Health Sector, these efforts are part of a comprehensive framework aimed at combating communicable diseases through preventive measures and strategic health initiatives.
Preventive action
Dr. Nada Al Marzouqi, Director of the Department of Public Health and Prevention, highlighted the importance of parental cooperation. With measles posing serious risks to unvaccinated children, she stressed the need for widespread participation in the campaign. The Ministry has facilitated access to vaccination centres and school clinics, ensuring that preventive health services are within reach for all families. This approach is part of a broader national commitment to fostering a health-conscious society and reinforcing the infrastructure needed to combat infectious diseases.
The UAE’s proactive stance on public health extends beyond immediate immunisation efforts. The emphasis on collaboration between government bodies and private health services showcases a model for effective disease prevention. By implementing comprehensive surveillance systems and continuously updating immunisation programs, the UAE seeks to position itself as a leader in global health, demonstrating the impact of well-coordinated public-private partnerships.
commitment to a healthier future
As global challenges like climate change and emerging diseases put pressure on public health systems, the UAE’s focus on robust immunisation frameworks gains even more relevance. The measles booster campaign is not just a local health measure but part of a vision that aligns with international standards. Dr. Al Rand’s statements reinforce the UAE’s dedication to innovation and scientific rigour in public health, aiming for outcomes that benefit both present and future generations. The campaign’s strategic execution is designed to eliminate measles and contribute to a safer, healthier society.
With the campaign in full swing, the government continues to engage parents and guardians, encouraging them to play an active role in protecting their children and community. By combining education, access, and state-of-the-art medical practices, the UAE is setting a precedent for comprehensive, community-focused healthcare.
