Maldives is the lead country in eliminating communicable diseases in the region, however the country should remain vigilant in maintaining these elimination statuses, according to the Country Representative to the Maldives of World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Arwind Mathur. He made the remarks while speaking on Talk Maldives TV programme, aired on PSM News.
The WHO Country Representative to the Maldives praised the Maldivian Government and people for its achievements in the health sector, especially in eliminating 5 non-communicable diseases, as well as being ahead in ensuring universal health care, development of health infrastructure and other matters related to the health sector.
Achievements of Maldives was duly acknowledged through two awards given to the country at the 70th WHO South East Asia Regional Committee held in the Maldives recently, according to the Country Representative of WHO. One of these awards were related to the country's elimination of measles, adding to the earlier achievement of polio, maternal neonatal tetanus, malaria and Filariasis, Dr. Arwind Mathur mentioned. He said maintaining these achievement is possible by implementing surveillance plan. He further said Maldives was given the regional award for excellence in public health, which is given to acknowledge the country's commitment to ensure quality health services.
The WHO Country Representative said the delegates had a positive experience and complimented Maldives for a successful organisation of South East Asia Regional Committee held in Bandos Island Resort in August.