The UAE government revealed that the nation has ranked first globally in its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. The country leads in the vaccination rate per 100 people and ranks first worldwide for the highest percentage of individuals who have received at least one vaccine dose. Additionally, the UAE ranks fifth globally for the lowest number of deaths from confirmed COVID-19 cases.
During the regular media briefing on the latest updates related to COVID-19 in the country, the official spokesperson for the health sector, Dr. Farida Al Hosani, confirmed the UAE's success in managing the pandemic using all metrics. The efforts of various teams combating the pandemic have proven fruitful, driven by the foresight of the nation’s leadership and proactive national measures across all vital sectors.
Dr. Al Hosani indicated that the health sector demonstrated robust infrastructure, including qualified personnel, ensuring preparedness at all levels for various emergencies. This positioned the UAE among the top countries in managing the pandemic.
She disclosed that the UAE achieved the third highest rank globally for the number of COVID-19 tests conducted per 1,000 people among countries with populations exceeding one million, according to Our World in Data, from the start of the pandemic until September 12. The country also placed fifth in terms of the fewest deaths from confirmed COVID-19 infections.
As of September 12, the UAE ranked first globally for the percentage of fully vaccinated individuals per 100 people, standing at 81.55% for complete vaccinations and 92.34% for those who received at least one dose, marking the highest rates globally.
Furthermore, the UAE excelled in the rate of doses administered per 100 people among countries with populations over one million, showcasing the effectiveness of the UAE's vaccination strategy aimed at achieving community immunity. Dr. Al Hosani highlighted the synergy between the health sector and vital sectors in managing and containing the pandemic, alongside the community's role in reducing infection rates.
She noted that the intensified testing measures and the availability of multiple vaccines contributed to a marked decrease in recorded cases. Currently, there has been a 60% reduction in COVID-19 infection rates compared to August, recording the lowest numbers since last year.
Dr. Al Hosani explained that vaccines generally help prevent infection, reduce the severity of illness, decrease hospital stays, and lead to fewer cases requiring ventilators, particularly compared to unvaccinated individuals. She mentioned the introduction of booster shots, which have significantly enhanced immunity, resulting in a drop in the current number of cases.
She advised that the booster shot is an additional dose administered after the primary vaccination to enhance the immune response. Individuals eligible for the booster should ensure they receive it accordingly.
With the seasonal flu coinciding with the pandemic, she encouraged the community to get the seasonal flu vaccine to protect against common viruses, especially for high-risk groups such as the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, and children under five.
Dr. Al Hosani emphasized that vaccination is the most effective and safe method for preventing infection. She recommended that the community prioritize flu vaccinations, particularly noting that the interval between the flu vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine should be two weeks.
She attributed the UAE's success in combating COVID-19 to community integration, which she described as pivotal for achieving objectives and returning to a new normal. The positive engagement of the community and adherence to preventive measures played a significant role in lowering infection rates.
Dr. Al Hosani insisted that community involvement in the upcoming phases is just as critical as the roles of relevant authorities for pandemic management, emphasizing that community behavior is essential for maintaining the gains made in public health and ensuring a return to normal life.
**Key Recommendations:**
- Make testing a routine practice and adhere to preventive measures such as wearing masks and maintaining physical distance.
- Ensure to get vaccinated and receive booster shots to promote a healthy environment.
