The Health Minister discusses efforts to support vaccination programs with the Polio Eradication Initiative.

Today, Dr. Qassem Baheeb, Yemen’s Minister of Public Health and Population, met with Dr. Hamid Jafari, the Director of the Polio Eradication Program for the Eastern Mediterranean Region, in Amman, Jordan. The two officials discussed strategies to combat the rising cases of polio, particularly in Yemen.

Vaccination Initiatives in Yemen

During the meeting, Minister Baheeb highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing vaccination programs. He detailed the successful implementation of five community vaccination rounds, which resulted in the absence of polio cases in liberated areas. However, he pointed out that the ongoing resistance from the Houthi militia to carry out community vaccination campaigns continues to pose a significant risk to public health.

Call for Enhanced Surveillance

Minister Baheeb emphasized the importance of supporting the polio eradication initiatives. He called for a comprehensive approach to disease surveillance, particularly for high-risk diseases. This proactive stance aims to ensure the health and safety of the population in Yemen.

Future Steps in Polio Eradication

In response, Dr. Jafari provided an overview of current and upcoming efforts in the region. He outlined the next steps necessary to bolster the fight against polio and improve health outcomes across the Eastern Mediterranean.

This meeting underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts to eradicate polio and protect vulnerable populations in Yemen and beyond.

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