WHO oversees MoU between the Task Force for Global Health & MoPH to ensure Influenza vaccine for Lebanon

WHO oversees MoU between the Task Force for Global Health & MoPH to ensure Influenza vaccine for Lebanon

NNA - The Minister of Public Health Dr. Firass Abiad signed today a Memorandum Of Agreement with the Task Force for Global Health represented by PIVI Director Dr. Joseph Bresee in the presence of the WHO team represented by Team Lead Dr. Alissar Rady and the presence of WHO-EMRO representative Dr. Rania Attia . The MOU marks the start of Lebanon’s eligibility to become a PIVI (Partnership for Influenza Vaccine Introduction) partner country. It has become one of 21 countries that are benefitting from PIVI eligibility and support.

“After the COVID pandemic, we all learned the importance of being prepared with systems in place, with immunity or vaccines readily available, and so on. But unfortunately, because of the situation in Lebanon and the resourceful environment, the level of preparedness in Lebanon is something we could not have done on our own. That is why this support at this very crucial time is even more and we are very appreciative of the support,” said Dr Firass Abiad.

This support will allow for the availability of influenza vaccines ahead of the flu season every year for the next five years. The essence of the partnership is to provide technical support to the MOPH through