UAE health authorities to vaccinate half of population by end of March

A nationwide campaign to vaccinate at least half of the eligible population against COVID-19 by the end of March has been launched in the UAE.

This comes after the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and the Department of Health Abu Dhabi (DoH) joined forces to roll out the vaccination drive.

DoH will provide a number of centres, including drive through services, with COVID-19 vaccines outside of the capital.

These will be operated by Abu Dhabi Healthcare Services (SEHA) and will increase the number of locations nationally where COVID-19 vaccines are available to 218, including healthcare facilities and majalis.

Earlier, the UAE announced that all citizens and residents above the age of 16 are eligible to be vaccinated against the virus.

Abdul Rahman bin Mohammed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention, said, "Vaccinations are the safest and most effective way to curb the spread of COVID-19 and ensure the health and safety of our community. By joining forces with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, we are accelerating the goal of vaccinating 50 percent of those eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine by the end of March. With guidance and support from our wise leadership, vaccination is our choice to triumph over the virus and recover as soon as possible."

As of 19th January, 2,065,367 doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in the UAE, with the vaccine distribution rate to 20.88 per 100 persons.

Sheikh Abdullah Al Hamed, Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said, "The COVID-19 vaccines have undergone rigorous scientific and regulatory processes to ensure their safety, efficacy and quality. I encourage everyone to choose to vaccinate, without hesitation, to protect themselves and the health of our nation."

The vaccine consists of two doses, with the first administered following a health assessment and the second given 21-28 days later.