Preventing Shingles: Ministry of Health Introduces Herpes Zoster Vaccine for Adults

2023-10-12 10:38:52

The Ministry of Health and Community Protection announced the availability of the herpes zoster vaccine, known as the shingles prevention vaccine, in health facilities for adults aged 50 years and over, which is taken in two doses, 6 months apart, as vaccination supports the prevention of the disease and is considered the best prevention practice to contribute to preventing Or reduce the risk of shingles in adults and complications in those with the disease.

This came during a scientific session organized by the Ministry at its headquarters in Dubai, in the presence of His Excellency Dr. Hussein Abdul Rahman Al-Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Public Health Sector, a number of directors of the relevant departments and divisions of the Ministry, and representatives from local health authorities.

The topics of the scientific session included highlighting the importance of spreading awareness among members of society about the importance of preventive vaccinations for target groups, and focusing on vaccination against shingles, to enhance the capabilities of health workers by making them aware of the latest international recommendations on this disease, which contributes to reducing the health burden of preventable diseases. Including increasing vaccine coverage.

Developing the immunization program
In the opening speech, His Excellency Dr. Hussein Al-Rand stressed the importance of including the herpes zoster vaccination, known as the shingles vaccine, in the national immunization program recommended for adults, with the aim of preventing diseases and raising coverage rates to ensure the best results are achieved, through developing a vaccination policy and maintaining coverage rates. Vaccination and keeping pace with global developments in this field, to develop the health immunization system against diseases targeted by vaccinations, and to support preventive health and quality of life indicators.

His Excellency pointed out that the UAE is a global leader in the field of vaccinations, with the support of wise leadership and the provision of all capabilities and capabilities, to further develop the immunization system and enhance its proactiveness and sustainability, in a way that enhances the protection of the health and safety of the UAE community and achieves health goals, within the framework of the strategic priorities for developing the health system and protecting society from communicable diseases. Through proactive measures and best international practices.

Facts about the disease
Shingles is a viral infection that occurs as a result of the reactivation of the chickenpox virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. It usually causes a skin rash that often appears on one side of the body. The disease and its complications can be prevented by taking the herpes zoster vaccine.

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