The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the UAE for its advancements in its national immunization program, particularly the integration of the HPV vaccine. This recognition highlights the WHO’s confidence in the UAE’s robust health system, which prioritizes preventive measures and delivers comprehensive healthcare through innovative and sustainable practices, ensuring effective disease prevention and the adoption of cutting-edge immunization technology.
The recognition highlights the continuous efforts of the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and other health authorities to enhance and update the National Immunization Program. As a key national initiative, the program undergoes regular reviews by specialized technical committees, such as the National Immunization Technical Advisory Group and the Supreme National Committee for Immunization. These reviews are aligned with the latest international standards and consider local vaccine coverage and the incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases.
His Excellency Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Public Health Sector, takes pride in this recognition, noting it reflects the UAE leadership’s commitment to excelling in global health indicators. He emphasized that the honor acknowledges the relentless efforts of MoHAP, its strategic partners, and other health authorities to strengthen the health system and prevent diseases. This recognition further motivates the UAE to maintain excellence in public health, ensuring high levels of community protection and the implementation of sustainable health strategies.
Dr. Al Rand also highlighted that since 2018, the HPV vaccine has been included in the national immunization program for females, making the UAE the first country in the Eastern Mediterranean region to do so. Recently, the program expanded to include male students aged 13 to 14 years, further reinforcing the UAE’s reputation as a global model for integrated healthcare.
