KUWAIT, Jan 26 (KUNA) -- Kuwait has succeeded in stopping active transmission of measles and rubella for 12 consecutive months, in line with a World Health Organization (WHO) announcement, due to high vaccine coverage and stronger disease surveillance, Minister of Health said.
Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi made the remarks while opening the 3rd Kuwait Public Health Conference, held over two days as a leading national and regional platform bringing together experts from Kuwait and abroad to discuss key health issues.
Kuwait has expanded Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination to cover people aged 9-45, in line with global guidance to prevent cancers linked to the virus, Dr. Al-Awadhi said.
The Ministry of Health (MoH) has also expanded early screening services for breast cancer, cervical cancer and other diseases, he added.
As part of efforts to monitor infectious diseases and protect public health for citizens, residents and travelers, he said a comprehensive plan has been approved to upgrade health centers at land, sea and air border points, expand "Tatamman" clinics for consultation and early screening, and continue annual winter vaccination campaigns, along with maternal and infant protection programs to reduce seasonal illnesses and protect high-risk groups.
Infection prevention teams are continuing efforts to enhance safety at health facilities, combat healthcare-associated infections and strengthen programs to confront anti-microbial resistance, in line with national and regional action plans, he mentioned.
Al-Awadhi highlighted the role of the Kuwait Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a cornerstone of public health through monitoring priorities, providing training and capacity building, organizing specialized workshops and strengthening partnerships with regional and international organizations, mainly in public health emergency protocols and epidemic preparedness and response.
Meanwhile, Dr. Hamid Ghuloum, conference organizing committee head, said the conference will review the latest developments in infectious diseases, epidemiology, health surveillance systems, emergency response, chemical safety, vaccines and immunization programs and ant-imicrobial resistance.
He underscored that progress in public health requires integrated efforts, shared expertise and cooperation among health institutions, government bodies, academia, regional and international partners.
Kuwait has made major strides in strengthening surveillance, prevention and disease control through modern digital systems, developing qualified national cadres and expanding partnerships, including cooperation with the Gulf CDC and international scientific institutions, he explained. (end) mnm.lr