Dubai developing database on professionals researching infectious diseases

Dubai is developing a database of professionals specialising in and researching infectious diseases, the Dubai Future Foundation has said in a report.

Titled 'Life after Covid-19: Health', the report is prepared in collaboration with the Dubai Future Council for Health and Wellbeing, and highlights most significant global post-pandemic trends in the healthcare sector.

For the short term, the report predicts that telemedicine may play a more prominent role in the future of healthcare, with more patients likely to have initial consultations online or via AI chatbots. The integration of clear security protocols, such as the Dubai Health Authority and Dubai Electronic Security Center's 'Security Standard for Electronic Biomedical Devices' will be vital to protecting patients' privacy and providing accurate information.

For the long term, the report affirms that healthcare systems will put in place dedicated departments of epidemiology and virology to ensure their readiness in tackling potential pandemics.

As the tenth in the series, the latest report underscores the efforts of the UAE and the wider Arab region in maintaining the efficiency of their health systems during the crisis. It details some of the important learnings that need to be implemented to strengthen existing systems to better prepare for similar pandemics in the future. Furthermore, it highlights the most significant trends set to emerge in the healthcare landscape during this exceptional time.

The report also documents that testing is a top priority for the UAE. According to recent announcements, over 2.5 million tests have been administered so far, making the UAE one of the top countries in testing per capita worldwide. Testing is only one part of the UAE's broader 'Life After Covid-19' strategy.

Humaid Al Qutami, Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and Chairman of Dubai Future Council for Health and Wellbeing, said: "Throughout history, we have witnessed that it is particularly during times of war and crises that significant breakthroughs have been made leading to the well-being and prosperity of the wider community. However, such solutions can only be achieved through a comprehensive evaluation of the situation, followed by meticulous plans to ensure logical and realistic outcomes."

The report focuses on the efforts of hospitals in the UAE and other Arab countries, that are treating patients with blood plasma injections - plasma makes up the largest component of an individual's blood. Doctors have reported that between 40 and 50 per cent of all Covid-19 patients recover from this treatment.