Oman prepares for the Global Adult Tobacco Survey

The Ministry of Heath has begun preparations to conduct the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) in Oman. A three member team from the Ministry attended a 5-day Orientation Training at the Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, USA. The training covers all aspects of the survey including the adaptation of the standard questionnaire, sample design adaptation, and data management. Although Oman has some data about tobacco use, this will be the first survey that will obtain comprehensive information including the prevalence of tobacco use (both smoking and smokeless tobacco products) and second-hand smoke, cessation, knowledge, attitudes and perceptions and exposure of tobacco products in the media. 

Oman aims to strengthen adult immunization

A WHO Mission visited Oman from 12 to 23 April 2015 to assist in the adult immunization programme including the immunization of healthcare workers.  The team met experts from the central level but also experts at the regional and local level as well as various specialty hospitals located in the capital area. These meetings with numerous stakeholders guided the development of a policy and guidelines for adult immunization. 

Oman has a strong EPI programme demonstrated by both the rapid decline of vaccine preventable diseases in children and a coverage rate of routine vaccinations nearly 100% over the past ten years. Efforts in recent years have been towards not only sustaining the achievements in childhood immunization but to enhance adult immunization, particularly among health care workers and vulnerable groups. 

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