KUWAIT: Kuwait is the first country in the Middle East to offer a vaccine protecting children from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), bronchiolitis, and pneumonia, said Minister of Health Dr Ahmad Al-Awadhi on Saturday. He described this move as a major advancement that enhances Kuwait’s position in pediatric medicine.

In a statement to the press following the opening of the Second Kuwait Pediatric Conference on Saturday, Dr Al-Awadhi emphasized the vaccines’ importance and its significant impact on reducing respiratory infections in children. In his opening speech, he highlighted that child health is fundamental to societal progress, stressing the vital role of scientific research in finding effective solutions to health challenges facing the community.

Dr Al-Awadhi also explained that the Ministry of Health has focused heavily on pediatric care in recent years by establishing specialized departments in hospitals, equipping them with the latest medical technology, and ensuring they are staffed with highly trained Kuwaiti medical professionals. He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to staying at the forefront of global medical advancements, noting that the continued organization of scientific conferences is evidence of the ministry’s strong support for ongoing medical education and collaboration with leading medical centers worldwide.

Conference chair Dr Iman Al-Enaizi called the event a unique gathering of expertise in various areas of pediatrics, both regionally and internationally. She pointed out that five leading global medical centers are participating, enriching the conference with the latest research and developments in child health. Dr Al-Enaizi also mentioned that this year’s conference will focus on new topics, including adolescent health, following the ministry’s decision to raise the age for “child health screenings” in Kuwait to 14-16 years.

She added that the conference also provides parents with the chance to meet with doctors from the international hospitals that have treated their children. Dr Sundus Al-Shareeda, Chair of the Scientific Committee, said the three-day conference serves as a prominent scientific platform, bringing together over 90 speakers from across the world. Dr Al-Shareeda further explained that the conference includes more than seven interactive workshops covering specialized topics such as pediatric cardiology, neonatal care, medical leadership, and emergency medicine. She emphasized that the conference aims to enhance knowledge exchange, skill development, and the building of strong partnerships among professionals in this vital field. — KUNA