The Dubai Health Authority (DHA), in collaboration with Dubai Ambulance and the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, has announced the expansion of its home vaccination drive to include more social segments that are unable to visit vaccination centres.

The categories qualified for the service include people of determination, Emiratis aged 50 and above and elderly Dubai residents aged 60 and above. DHA said it would begin administering the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to eligible community members.

Dr Farida Al Khaja, CEO of DHA’s Clinical Support Services and Nursing Sector and Chairperson of the COVID-19 Vaccination Steering Committee, said that expanding the vaccination drive is for helping seniors take the vaccine from the comfort of their homes.

The campaign will support DHA’s mission of safeguarding the community and ensuring the highest health and safety standards, she added.

Dr Al Khaja said the Authority, together with its strategic partners, has made several arrangements for reaching the groups targeted in the drive.

Mobile buses and health professionals have been designated for the home vaccination service following international protocols and prevention and safety guidelines.

Community members can schedule the service by calling DHA’s toll-free number 800 342.

Those who provide proof of residence in the UAE will receive the vaccine under this initiative. The vaccination will be delivered within 48 hours of requesting the service.

Dr Al Khaja encouraged elderly community members to benefit from the home vaccination service, which will be available every day from 8:00 to 20:00.

She added that providing easy access to the COVID-19 vaccine by increasing vaccination centres and introducing the home service support DHA’s goal of vaccinating 100% of the eligible population in Dubai by the end of 2021.

 WAM