The UAE's Pivotal Role in the Global Fight Against Polio

The world observed World Polio Day on October 24th to recognize international efforts to eradicate the crippling disease. The UAE has been at the forefront of these efforts with its substantial financial backing playing a major role globally. As a key partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, the UAE has helped immunize over 2.5 billion children worldwide since 1988. 

Through initiatives like the long running Emirates Polio Campaign in Pakistan the UAE provides crucial operational support and funding to vaccination drives This involves helping to conduct nationwide immunization rounds and fill immunity gaps in high risk areas. Due to UAE aid over 96 million doses were administered in Pakistan alone in 2017.

As a cornerstone donor the UAE has contributed $300 million since 2003. This supports eradication activities across 18 endemic and vulnerable countries. It also actively participates in WHO forums to help formulate strategy Priority areas currently include campaigns in Afghanistan Africa and research into new vaccines.

Renewed commitment and funding is vital as just three countries remain endemic Pakistan Afghanistan and Nigeria. Continued challenges like conflict remote communities and vaccine hesitancy must also be addressed. 

On World Polio Day the world recognized the UAE leadership and humanitarian spirit in the fight against this preventable disease. Under the wise guidance of its rulers, the nation is dedicated to realizing a polio-free future for all children worldwide.

This exemplifies the UAE vision of promoting global health and development through collaborative initiatives It will sustain efforts with partners to ensure every child is protected from the risks of lifelong paralysis.