COVID-19: UAE’s breakthrough a matter of pride

At a time when the entire world is struggling to find right ways to deal with the deadly pandemic, it is a matter of great pride for the citizens and residents of the UAE that a breakthrough COVID-19 treatment developed by UAE stem cell centre has come out with promising initial results.

A patent has already been granted by the Ministry of Economy for the development of the innovative and promising treatment for COVID-19 infections using stem cells.

The patent was granted for the innovative method in which the stem cells are collected.

The team of doctors and researchers at the Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Center, ADSCC, which developed the treatment involving extraction of stem cells from the patient’s own blood and reintroducing them after activating them truly deserve all praise and appreciation.

The process itself has been meticulous.

The treatment was administered in the UAE to 73 COVID-19 patients who have all been successfully treated and cured of the virus by inhaling the treatment into their lungs after it has been nebulized into a fine mist.

It is hypothesised to have its therapeutic effect by regenerating lung cells and modulating the immune response to keep it from overreacting to the COVID-19 infection and causing further damage to healthy cells.

The treatment has successfully undergone the initial phase of clinical trials, demonstrating its safety.

It should be noted that none of the patients who have received the treatment reported immediate adverse effects and there have been no interactions found with the conventional treatment protocols for COVID-19 patients.

Everyone on the frontline deserves a hearty salute.

Our society needs to stand united in solidarity with our medical cadres against the global pandemic, as stated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed launched the online #ThankYouHeroes campaign as a tribute to healthcare workers on the frontlines of the battle against the coronavirus pandemic.

In a message of appreciation for doctors, nurses, paramedics and medical teams who dedicate their days and nights to save lives and ensure public safety, Sheikh Mohammed posted a video showing the round-the-clock medical staffers away from their families rushing to fulfil their duties.

The UAE’s keenness to help health workers on the frontlines of combating the pandemic extends beyond borders too.

Under the directives of Sheikh Mohammed, the first aircraft carrying urgent aid for the United Kingdom’s healthcare sector has arrived in London from China.

The aid, which includes 60 tonnes of personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical equipment, aims to support the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) in combating COVID-19.

The urgent aid ordered by His Highness included face masks, protective clothing and other essential items required during this period. The humanitarian gesture also reflects the strong historical relations between the UAE and the UK.

Sheikh Mohammed’s generous aid demonstrates the UAE’s keenness to support international efforts to contain the outbreak.

Separately, the united efforts of service partners across Dubai’s aviation sector, embassies and UAE government authorities have helped 37,469 people to safely return to their homes on 312 special repatriation flights operated by 54 airlines.

While the authorities are doing their best, it is important on the part of the public to comply with the precautionary measures advised by the UAE Government, including staying at home, regular handwashing, social distancing, and wearing facemasks, in addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet.