Abu Dhabi launches drive-through child vaccination programme

Children can receive inoculations for tetanus and other jabs without leaving their parent's car

Children can now receive drive-through vaccinations at 10 healthcare centres in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

Ambulatory Healthcare Services launched the service to avoid parents having to take their children into hospital during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Families are asked to call 80050 to book an appointment, with medical staff able to inoculate children in vehicles parked outside health centres.

“There is no doubt that some may feel anxious or reluctant to visit the healthcare centres,” said Dr Noura Al Ghaithi, the chief operations officer at Ambulatory Health Services.

“That is why we designed this service to provide child vaccinations without the need for the parents to leave their car."

Officials said all vaccinations under the National Immunisation Programme could be completed at the drive-throughs, with the exception of the two-month vaccine which requires a physical examination.

“To reassure parents visiting to get the two-month vaccine, we have redesigned the patient flow so that the vaccination room is close to the entrance, therefore reducing the time the patient spends in the healthcare centre,” said Dr Al Ghaiti.

Dr Farida Al Hosani, spokeswoman for the UAE health sector, issued an appeal to parents to ensure their children were up to date with their jabs.

"The clear message to all mothers is they must make sure children are vaccinated, regardless of the situation," she said at a press briefing on Monday.

"There can be no delay. The UAE is keen to provide all required vaccinations to all sections of the community to protect against communicable diseases."

The service is available at Al Bateen, Zafaranah Diagnostic and Screening Centre, Mushrif Children’s Specialty Centre in Abu Dhabi City, Mohamed bin Zayed City, Khalifa City, Baniyas, Al Bahia, Al Falah and Al Samha.

In Al Ain, the service is at Oud Al Touba Diagnostic & Screening Centre, Al Hili, Mezyad, Neima, Al Jahili, Al Yahar, Al Qo’a, Al Muwaiji, Al Towayya Children's Specialty Centre and Al Hayer.