The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), in coordination with the Sharjah Government, recently announced that the frontline staff of the Sharjah Airport International has been given the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine. The initiative has been undertaken under the directives of the UAE leadership to ensure the highest levels of safety and protection for the frontline staff members ofkey sectors of the country, including the aviation industry, amid the prevailing threat of the pandemic.

Mohammed Abdullah Al-Zarouni, Director of Sharjah Medical District, was present at the vaccination campaign to provide support to the frontline workers.Speaking about the initiative, Al-Zarouni said that the move has come in line with the MoHAP's efforts in cooperation with the relevant authorities to safeguard the health and safety of the frontline workers.

"Having identified the target groups, the dose, and the immunisation system, the vaccination is provided in accordance with evidence-based scientific rules, quality control procedures, and the internationally approved protocols which include the constant medical follow-up and the monitoring of any side effects that may occur," he said.

Al-Zarouni also stated that after the frontline health workers received the first dose of Coronavirus vaccine, public’s confidence in the efficacy and effectiveness of the vaccine has increased. He added that such initiatives will contribute to achieving success in conducting phase III clinical trials of the COVID-19 vaccine which is being developed by the UAE in accordance with guidelines issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO). It will further boost global efforts to manufacture a safe vaccine against Coronavirus, he noted.

"These efforts are also proof of the UAE’s advancement in clinical research and the efficiency and ability of its health system to keep pace with the latest international health trends and to play an active role in achieving reliable scientific outcomes," Al-Zarouni said in conclusion.

Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah International Airport, also presented his remarks, highlighting that the UAE has always been working at the forefront globally in terms of providing the highest levels of protection and safety to its frontline employees.

Al Midfa emphasised that the UAE has achieved a new milestone with the approval of the emergency use of COVID-19 vaccine as it adds to the country's success in managing and handling the critical circumstances created by the pandemic crisis. In its response to COVID-19, the UAE consolidated national and global efforts and made rational decisions while prioritising the health and safety of the individuals which helped the country achieve this success.

In conclusion, Al Midfa expressed happiness for being the first authority in Sharjah to provide COVID-19 vaccine to its frontline staff members who come in direct contact with travellers, noting that the Sharjah Airport is the main gateway to the emirate and it receives passengers from all over the world.

WAM