The Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), is conducting a two-day meeting with the International Health Regulations National Focal Point Committee. The objective is to formulate Guyana’s 2024 State Party Self-Assessment Annual Report (SPAR). Dr. Frank Anthony, the Minister of Health, participated in the first session on Monday, outlining the nation’s strategies to enhance surveillance and implement critical measures to ensure readiness for future outbreaks and pandemics.
Reflecting on lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, Minister Anthony stressed the importance of proactive strategies and strong protocols to protect public health. To strengthen its response capabilities, the government has secured a loan of US$7 million and obtained US$15 million in pandemic response grants through a collaboration with the World Bank for 2024. These funds will facilitate safe specimen transport, quarantine protocols for sick animals, and improved monitoring of zoonotic diseases that could impact human health.
Minister Anthony emphasized the significance of molecular surveillance in comprehending viral threats. Plans are underway to enhance the National Public Health Reference Lab’s capabilities, which includes boosting technical expertise and the surveillance framework. Over the next three years, the recruitment of additional technical staff will be prioritized to develop these systems, focusing on standardizing reporting formats, training personnel, and ensuring prompt data collection and analysis.
A national response team will be created to investigate spikes in illnesses, while infrastructure improvements in health facilities are ongoing across all regions. By year-end, six new hospitals will be equipped with their own laboratories capable of performing various diagnostic tests. These labs, situated in Region Six at Number 75 Village, Bath, along the East Coast, East Bank, De Kinderen, and Bartica, will enhance existing facilities, forming an integrated network of laboratories supported by advanced software for efficient information sharing.
Moreover, the ministry plans to roll out influenza vaccinations for healthcare workers and the elderly, with an initial delivery of 12,000 doses anticipated shortly. Public education campaigns will be initiated to promote the importance of vaccination.
Minister Anthony underscored the critical need for global health vigilance, highlighting the necessity to monitor international developments and establish systems that enable Guyana to respond effectively to emerging health threats. Through these comprehensive initiatives, Guyana aims to bolster its preparedness and resilience against future health challenges.
