Dubai, UAE – The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) have confirmed the readiness of the UAE’s national monitoring and response system to handle any emerging health developments, including those related to the Hanta virus.
They emphasized that the health preparedness system is subject to continuous evaluation
and updating in accordance with best practices and international standards.
Review of monitoring and coordination systems
During a meeting of the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Team for Human Epidemics,
chaired by Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of Health and Prevention, and overseen by the National Emergency,
Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, with the participation of representatives from health and security authorities
and strategic partners, the relevant authorities reviewed the latest developments related to the Hantavirus.
They also reviewed the health monitoring and response systems adopted at both the local and national levels.
The meeting also addressed mechanisms for coordination and integration among the various entities
to ensure rapid response and effective health interventions.
This was all within the framework of a unified national system for managing health risks and epidemics.
Emphasis on medical preparedness
The National Taskforce emphasized the continued implementation of precautionary measures
as part of the UAE’s proactive approach to strengthening its public health preparedness system.
It also affirmed the readiness of healthcare facilities and medical personnel across the Emirates to efficiently handle any potential cases.
Furthermore, the Taskforce stressed the importance of enhancing the operational readiness of the healthcare sector
and regularly updating response plans to ensure a swift response to any emerging health developments.
The National Taskforce urged members of the community to obtain information
from official and accredited sources and to avoid circulating rumors or inaccurate information.
This is due to the potential impact such matters can have on public health awareness and community stability.
In this context, the Taskforce reiterated the UAE’s unwavering commitment to protecting public health
and promoting community awareness through health policies based on prevention and early preparedness.
World Health Organization: “Hanta” is low risk
In the same context, the World Health Organization (WHO) indicated that the Hantavirus is currently classified
as a low-risk virus in terms of its potential for global pandemic spread.
It also clarified that human-to-human transmission remains limited,
and that most recorded cases are linked to direct exposure to rodents or environments contaminated with their droppings.
The WHO confirmed that current epidemiological data do not indicate a risk of a widespread outbreak or pandemic.
However, international health surveillance of developments related to the virus continues.
This confirmation aligns with the UAE’s proactive approach to public health management, which is based on early preparedness.
It also focuses on strengthening national capacities in epidemiological surveillance and rapid response,
ensuring community protection and the sustainability of health security.
