A major step forward for regional health security as the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) unveiled its regional Emergency Operations Centre, strengthening the Caribbean’s ability to prepare for, respond to and coordinate public health emergencies.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony at CARPHA’s Port of Spain campus, Minister of Health Dr Lackram Bodoe applauded the initiative and recognised the impact the Centre will have on the region’s ability to respond to natural disasters and other crises.

“Prepared health systems can save lives, prepared countries recover faster, prepared regions stand stronger together. This new regional Emergency Operations Centre will strengthen our collective ability to detect emerging threats earlier, to coordinate responses more effectively, and to support Member States during disasters and reinforce resilience against future public health emergencies.”