The Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Council of Minister of Health of Central America (COMISCA) conducted a workshop session with health care professional and other key personnel from other Government Departments to review Belize’s Pandemic Influenza Response Plan. The workshop was held on Thursday, October 31st, 2013 at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza.
The main objective of the session was to provide technical assistance to publish an updated plan to prepare and respond to new emerging influenza viruses recently seen in other countries. Participants were encouraged to present information and recommendations as it related to their field of work. Presentations were done on Influenza Surveillance in Belize, Animal Health Influenza Surveillance in Belize and a Regional Pandemic Influenza Plan and Recommendations.
The present Pandemic Influenza Response Plan was developed in 2008 with the assistance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). It includes key components such as Surveillance and preparedness, Laboratory diagnosis, Vaccine, management a mass fatalities, medical supplies, clinical diagnosis, psychological response and infection control procedures.
Visiting consultant from COMISCA, Dr. Martha Gonzalez worked along with the Ministry of Health Technical Staff to facilitating the workshop. Influenza Focal Point for the Ministry of Health is Dr. Jorge Polanco.
