H.E. Dr. Yousif Alserkal, Director-General of Emirates Health Services (EHS), said that the UAE has set a great model for the world in eradicating polio. The nation has achieved remarkable results in dealing with the disease by taking preventive measures and through scientifically accurate handling of any suspected cases.
H.E. Dr. Alserkal commended the initiatives of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, president of the UAE, for the importance placed by the leadership in enhancing the efforts for global polio eradication. The polio eradication campaigns held in various countries reflect the leadership's commitment to addressing global health challenges and achieving the goals of the Global Polio Eradication Strategy internationally.
H.E. emphasized that marking World Polio Day, which falls on October 24th every year, is part of EHS’ efforts to keep up with the latest global developments and best practices. It also reflects EHS’ commitment to adhering to the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO) in raising the strategic indicator of vaccinated children in their first year by driving the continuous development of all medical and technical staff, enabling them to keep pace with the developments in the field of immunization and prevention.
H.E. Dr. Alserkal stated that due to the efforts of EHS and its partners in the UAE in implementing a comprehensive polio surveillance system and providing comprehensive health coverage, no cases have been reported in the UAE since 1992.
He added, "With continuous implementation of all necessary measures to eradicate the disease, the country was officially certified in 2007 as being polio-free."