The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) on Tuesday called on the public to ensure that they receive information and updates related to COVID-19 developments in the UAE from official social media accounts of the government. Addressing a news briefing, top NCEMA official said that spreading misinformation and rumours about the COVID-19 situation in the country can hinder the ongoing efforts of recovery in several key sectors.

“We stress on the need to obtain information from official accredited sources to avoid legal liability,” said Dr Taher Al Amiri, official NCEMA spokesperson.

He affirmed that the UAE entities have been sharing all information and protocols about the pandemic across its official platforms. UAE authorities have adopted transparency and integrity in its approach to ensure that the public is aware about necessary protocols and COVID-19 situation in the country, he added. The government has been holding regular media briefings to share relevant information about the latest developments on COVID-19.

Nationwide vaccination drive

Thanks to the countrywide vaccination efforts, the UAE has become one of the most vaccinated countries in the world.

“The health sector is keen on providing different vaccines approved by the WHO. These vaccines are safe for all targeted groups," he stressed.

UAE authorities also formed a national team to oversee all studies and research conducted on COVID-19 vaccines across the world. The national vaccination campaign helped in promoting the importance of vaccinations in boosting immunity and facilitated return to a new normal life in the UAE. The health sector ensured the provision of a wide range of COVID-19 vaccines for free of cost to all targeted groups across various medical centres in the country.

“All information on vaccines, including booster shots and the means to obtain them, are announced according to the findings of the team with great transparency to ensure everyone is well-informed," he added.

Amid the ongoing fight against COVID-19, Dr Taher hailed the UAE’s capability to host large scale events in compliance with the best health practices and safety protocols. The UAE is hosting the biggest event in the world "Expo 2020 Dubai" with guaranteed safety and protection for all visitors and tourists.

In conclusion, the official urged all community members to get vaccinated, follow safety measures and ensure regular testing to curb the spread of the virus.

“Protecting the UAE’s achievements is a national responsibility. At this phase, social integration is essential to return to a new normal life," he said.