Accra:During the 73rd Session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Samia Bahram, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health at the Ministry of Health, emphasized Bahrain's dedication to enhancing its vaccination programs and preventive health services for all age groups.
According to Ministry of Health - Bahrain, Dr. Bahram stressed the significance of expanding adult vaccination, especially for older adults and individuals with noncommunicable diseases, to mitigate vaccine-preventable health issues and promote public health and healthy aging.
Dr. Bahram delivered these insights at a side event titled 'Advancing Adult Vaccination for Healthy Ageing and Noncommunicable Disease Prevention in the Eastern Mediterranean Region Leveraging Gulf Leadership to Accelerate Regional Action,' organized by the Eastern Mediterranean Noncommunicable Diseases Alliance. The event featured speakers from various parts of the region.
Bahrain has achieved routine vaccination coverage rates exceeding 95% for nearly thirty years and has been free of polio since 1994. Additionally, since 2019, the country has maintained its status in eliminating measles and rubella.
The National Immunization Programme in Bahrain offers vaccinations throughout a person’s life as part of primary healthcare services, including chronic disease clinics, maternal healthcare services, and premarital screenings. It also provides recommended vaccinations for travelers, with mobile units facilitating access to vaccines for various community segments, including older adults, thereby enhancing disease prevention and community health.