Ministry of Health launches Measles Control Initiative for children & teens aged 1-18

UAE - October 28, 2015 - The Ministry of Health launches the Measles Control Initiative in collaboration with Health Authority - Abu Dhabi and Dubai Health Authority. The initiative aims to provide free measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination to all citizens and residents aged 1 to 18 from November 1 to November 26, 2015 at all health centers and through mobile teams deployed in schools. The free booster will be administered regardless if an individual has previously been given the MMR vaccine.   

Dr. Hussein Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for Centers and Health Clinics, said: "The Ministry aims to provide all the immunizations and vaccinations recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) as part of its continuous efforts to achieve our wise leaders’ vision of effective implementation of all preventive measures and the establishment of integrated health systems. Our ultimate goal is to strengthen the local health sector in accordance with the highest international standards, reinforce the UAE’s global status in terms of delivering outstanding healthcare services, and enhance the health of individuals and society.” 

Dr. Al Rand added: “One of the Ministry’s priorities is to boost the community’s immunity against infectious diseases, especially the young. We work hand-in-hand with our strategic partners to provide vaccinations in primary healthcare centers and ensure that these vaccines administered by trained and qualified medical and nursing staff are secure and safe. We affirm our commitment to periodically monitor and follow-up on the vaccinations through our specialized committees and regular field visits to ensure that we totally eradicate measles in our communities.”