WHO Honours UAE For Commitment To Integrating HPV Vaccine Into National Programme

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has acknowledged the UAE for its significant advancements in the national immunisation programme, particularly noting the inclusion of the HPV vaccine. This recognition underscores WHO's confidence in the UAE's health system, which focuses on preventive measures and offers comprehensive, integrated healthcare through innovative and sustainable methods.

Dr. Ahmed Al Suwaidi, Chairman of the National Immunisation Technical Advisory Group (NITAG), Dr. Sulaiman Al Hammadi, a member of NITAG, and Dr. Laila Al-Jasmi, Head of the Immunisation Department at the Ministry, accepted the award. The ceremony was held by the WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean in Cairo and also marked the 50th anniversary of WHO's Essential Programme for Immunisation.

Dr Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Public Health Sector, expressed that this accolade is a source of pride for the UAE. He highlighted that it reflects the leadership's dedication to excelling in global competitive indicators. "It is yet another incentive to maintain excellence in public health," he stated.

Al Rand emphasised that this honour recognises MoHAP and other health authorities' continuous efforts to enhance the health system's efficiency and disease prevention capabilities. He noted that these efforts ensure high levels of community protection and support sustainable health strategies.

The National Immunisation Programme is one of the UAE's strategic initiatives, undergoing regular reviews by specialised technical committees such as NITAG and the Supreme National Committee for Immunisation. These reviews align with international standards and consider local vaccine coverage and disease incidence rates.

Since 2018, the Ministry has included the HPV vaccine for females in its national immunisation program, making UAE a pioneer in the Eastern Mediterranean region. Recently, this program expanded to include male students aged 13 to 14 years. Al Rand praised ongoing support from strategic partners and health authorities, which sustains this programme and bolsters UAE’s reputation as a model for integrated healthcare.

Regional and Global Leadership

The UAE stands out both regionally and globally for adhering to high standards in combating HPV and cervical cancer. This achievement is attributed to various programmes initiated by health authorities committed to developing policies based on scientific research. These policies help set standards within national strategic programs aimed at combating diseases.

The accolade highlights MoHAP’s continuous efforts alongside other health authorities to update and enhance their immunisation programme. Periodic reviews by technical committees ensure alignment with international standards while reflecting local vaccine coverage data.

This recognition from WHO showcases UAE’s commitment to public health excellence through innovative approaches in disease prevention and immunisation technology integration. The country’s leadership remains dedicated to maintaining high standards in healthcare delivery, ensuring comprehensive protection for all community members.

With inputs from WAM