Turks and Caicos Islands Participates in Regional Workshop on Networking for Improved Mosquito-Borne Disease Response

PRESS RELEASE

FROM THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH

AND HUMAN SERVICES

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Thursday, 28 November 2024: The Ministry of Health and Human Services is pleased to announce the successful participation of two of its representatives at the Regional Mosquito-Borne Disease Workshop on Networking for Improved Responsiveness, held from 19-21 November 2024, in the Cayman Islands.

Ms. Sasha Walrond, National Epidemiologist, and Ms. Zatanya Handfield, Vector Control Coordinator, joined public health leaders, vector control experts, and researchers from across the Caribbean to address pressing challenges and advancements in mosquito-borne disease management.

The collaborative workshop, organised by the Cayman Islands and with the support of regional and international health bodies, including the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), focused on key issues including:

• Epidemiology of Vector-Borne Diseases (VBDs): Analyzing the burden of vector-borne diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and other arboviruses of public health significance like yellow fever, oropouche, Mayaro, and West Nile virus.
• Laboratory Diagnostics: Enhancing diagnostic capabilities in member states, including the delivery of rapid diagnostics and exploring point-of-care testing.
• Malaria and Leishmaniasis: Updates on these diseases within the region and strategies for monitoring and control.
• Integrated Vector Management (IVM): Discussing the roles of PAHO, CARPHA, and the UKHSA in vector control, addressing challenges specific to UK Overseas Territories, and exploring innovative strategies for sustainable mosquito management.
• Capacity Building and Public Health Communication: Highlighting the importance of education through initiatives such as the VBD eBug module for schools and communities.

Ms. Walrond emphasised the importance of epidemiological data sharing and diagnostic advancements, noting, “This workshop has provided us with current and relevant information to inform and improve the components of integrated vector borne disease management for the prevention, control, and response to vector borne diseases in our territory.”

Ms. Handfield commented on the workshop, stating, “The networking opportunities and knowledge shared during this workshop are invaluable for the Turks and Caicos Islands. Understanding the latest strategies in vector surveillance and control will strengthen our efforts to combat mosquito-borne diseases locally.”

The workshop underscored the importance of regional collaboration, research, and community-based approaches in tackling vector-borne diseases. The knowledge gained will directly inform ongoing public health initiatives in the Turks and Caicos Islands, enhancing the Ministry’s capacity to safeguard the health of residents and visitors alike. As part of this effort, the Ministry of Health and Human Services remains committed to enhancing the expertise of its team to ensure the highest standards of public health are upheld across the territory.

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