News
What has been the evolution, impact, and lessons learned from the management of avian influenza in Latin America and the Caribbean?
FAO presents a technical report that, for the first time, documents the regional impact of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in Latin America and the Caribbean following its introduction in 2022.
Since 1997, the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus strain H5N1 has caused significant outbreaks in domestic and wild birds across Asia, Europe, and Africa, with serious consequences for public health, biodiversity, and local economies.
In October 2022, this strain entered Latin America for the first time, marking a turning point for the region. The rapid spread of the virus and the emergence of new outbreaks in multiple countries revealed an unprecedented scenario, with cases not only in birds but also in marine mammals, domestic animals, and even in humans who had direct contact with infected animals.
Poultry production is a key pillar in Latin America and the Caribbean, both for food security and as a source of livelihood for millions of
small- and medium-scale producers. The expansion of HPAI has posed risks not only to the regional economy but also to the availability of animal-source protein and the biodiversity of ecosystems. Against this backdrop, reinforcing regional cooperation and strengthening technical capacities to prevent and control the virus have become urgent priorities.
The report Emergency and response to highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean: Regional technical report for the period October 2022 to September 2024, published by FAO, documents the health emergency triggered by the emergence and spread of HPAI H5N1 in countries across Central America, the Caribbean, and South America.
Detection and spread of the virus in Latin America and the Caribbean
Low pathogenicity:
The first records of avian influenza virus in South America date back to 2001, when a low pathogenicity strain was detected in wild waterfowl in Bolivia. In Colombia, the virus was first identified in broiler chickens in 2005. Between 2009 and 2012, Peru reported seven different subtypes, five of which had never been recorded elsewhere in Latin America.
In Central America, the first isolations of low pathogenicity virus in domestic poultry were reported in Guatemala and El Salvador in 2000 and 2001. In addition, several virus subtypes were identified in ducks in Guatemala between 2007 and 2013.
High pathogenicity:
One of the first major outbreaks of HPAI in South America occurred in Chile in 2002, caused by the H7N3 virus.
Since October 2022, Brazil, Chile, and Peru have reported the highest number of HPAI H5N1 cases in wild birds and animals in the Southern Cone. Among domestic birds, Argentina and Peru led in the number of outbreaks detected. In contrast, Central American and Caribbean countries reported fewer cases, which were sporadic and short-lived, both in wild and domestic birds.
These continental experiences confirmed the circulation of different virus lineages among wild birds in South America, suggesting a divergent evolution of these viruses in the hemisphere.
How to respond to an avian influenza emergency?
In response to the regional health challenge, in 2023, FAO approved a Technical Cooperation Programme and activated the Special Fund for Emergency and Rehabilitation Activities to support HPAI response efforts in 11 countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Honduras, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela. In parallel, national projects with similar objectives were implemented in the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, and El Salvador.
These programmes aimed to enhance countries’ capacity to manage and respond to the emergency by strengthening veterinary services, providing essential supplies, and supporting resource mobilization.
To achieve this, FAO supported actions focused on early detection, sanitary culling of animals, strengthening biosecurity, zonification, and provided technical advice on vaccination as a complementary tool to traditional control measures. Before the emergency, most countries in the region had not implemented vaccination against avian influenza—except for countries like the Dominican Republic and Guatemala. However, in 2023, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, and Uruguay decided to include vaccination in their outbreak control strategies, complementing it with surveillance and biosecurity measures.
FAO recommends establishing an interdisciplinary group under the One Health approach, bringing together multiple public and private
stakeholders to guide vaccination decisions. In addition, it is advised to define risk scenarios and make vaccination decisions during “peace times,” rather than in the midst of an outbreak, when risk perceptions can be altered.
The report highlights the importance of public–private collaboration in addressing the health crisis. In each country, poultry and egg producer associations (members of the Latin American Poultry Association) provided technical and operational support during the emergency. At the same time, specialized academic groups from various universities contributed to training activities, supported the design of sanitary strategies, and participated in applied research.
Lessons learned from the avian influenza crisis
The avian influenza crisis exposed the fact that some countries in the region lacked experience, appropriate protocols, and trained personnel to address a health emergency of this scale. This was reflected in the lack of harmonization or standardization of epidemiological records across the region, resulting in varying country responses, which could hinder future planning of prevention and control strategies.
Moreover, the impact on the general population was evident, as the high mortality of wild birds and mammals along coasts and wetlands caused alarm among residents and tourists, who reported these findings to authorities. In such situations, it is essential to collect samples, identify species, conduct epidemiological characterization, and manage health risks—remembering that sick or dead birds should not be handled, and any sightings must be reported immediately to the official veterinary services.
This health emergency illustrated the complex epidemiology of HPAI, characterized by its significant economic impact and threats to biodiversity and domestic animals. It also highlighted the need for greater preparedness to respond to large-scale and complex health emergencies—especially in critical areas such as the culling of caged laying hens, wildlife management, and control zone administration.
Finally, the report emphasizes the importance of public–private coordination, inter-institutional cooperation, and international collaboration. It recommends designing emergency vaccination plans, defining responsibilities in response to findings in wildlife, establishing protocols for exposed persons, and developing compensation mechanisms—especially for small-scale producers.
These experiences reaffirm the need for strong animal health systems, effective regional cooperation, and sustained strategies under the One Health approach as key pillars for addressing future zoonotic threats.
Read the publication here: https://doi.org/10.4060/cd4707es
More info:
HEADER: Grenada – A government official inspects a chicken during a visit to a beneficiary of FAO’s poultry project. © FAO/Giuseppe Bizzarri
- Mexico – Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, Mexico. A brown pelican flies over the mangroves of this biodiversity refuge on the Yucatán coast. © FAO/Luis Antonio Rojas
- Guatemala – Poultry and egg producer supplying public schools that receive state funding for school feeding. © Pep Bonet/NOOR for FAO
- Bolivia – Chickens being weighed in the shed at Maleriada farm. © FAO/Sue Price
- Nicaragua – A hen and her chicks rest on a rock. © FAO/Saul Palma
News
The Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals
PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS – (February 25th, 2026) – The Turks and Caicos Islands began 2026 on a positive note, with stayover arrivals in January surpassing the same period in 2025.
Preliminary figures indicate that 56,830 stayover visitors arrived in January 2026, representing a two percent increase year-on-year. The steady growth continues the positive momentum experienced at the close of 2025.
Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant, attributed the encouraging performance to new collaboration with tour operator partners as well as increased airlift from key source markets.
“We anticipated a strong January performance following the growth recorded in November and December. The winter season has traditionally been a robust period for the Turks and Caicos Islands, and this year that strength has been further supported by enhanced collaboration with partners and expanded airlift from Canada and the United States We are cautiously optimistic about maintaining this upward trajectory in the weeks and months ahead.
Cruise Sector
In cruise, preliminary figures show 122,935 cruise passenger arrivals in January, reflecting a 15 percent decrease compared to January 2025.
The decline is attributed to a reduction in cruise calls during the month. A total of 33 vessels called on Grand Turk in January, seven fewer than during the corresponding period last year.
Marketing Shows
As part of its ongoing efforts to position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier luxury destination, Experience Turks and Caicos has been actively participating in the Travel & Adventure Shows across several major cities in the United States.
The destination has already been showcased in Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago, with Fort Lauderdale and Denver scheduled in the coming weeks.
Public Relations Manager Laura Dowrich represented the Turks and Caicos Islands alongside the destination’s U.S. marketing agency, ABA Global.
Beaches Turks & Caicos – Stone Creek Travels
“One of the most encouraging takeaways from these shows is that the Turks and Caicos Islands is indeed on travellers’ radar. We met many visitors who shared fond memories of their time here, others who already have trips booked and were seeking recommendations on activities and dining, and many more who aspire to visit. It was a pleasure highlighting our multi-island destination and sharing the many experiences that make the Turks and Caicos Islands truly special,” said Ms. Dowrich.
Awards & Recognition
Building on a stellar year of accolades in 2025, the Turks and Caicos Islands has begun 2026 with additional international recognition.
The destination earned a Gold Badge in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, placing #5 in Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean and #5 in Best Beaches in the World. In the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Grand Turk was ranked #10 among the Best Caribbean Islands to Visit.
About Experience Turks and Caicos
Middle Caicos Dragon Cay Resort
Experience Turks and Caicos is the official destination marketing and management organisation (DMMO) for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The organisation is committed to positioning the destination as a premier, sustainable luxury tourism hub. By leveraging smart tools, data-driven strategies, and stakeholder collaboration, Experience Turks and Caicos focuses on enhancing the visitor experience and fostering long-term industry success.
About the Turks and Caicos Islands
The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of two island groups in the Lucayan Archipelago—the larger Caicos Islands and the smaller Turks Islands. Home to some of the world’s most pristine beaches, including the award-winning Grace Bay Beach, the destination is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, luxury accommodations, and rich cultural heritage. Each island and cay offer a unique experience:
- Providenciales boasts world-class resorts, fine dining, and high-end tourism offerings.
- Grand Turk serves as the vibrant hub for cruise tourism and historical exploration.
- The sister islands provide a gateway to nature, adventure, and authentic local culture.
Recognised as the world’s best-kept secret, the Turks and Caicos Islands offer effortless luxury, with seamless connectivity via direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Photo Captions:
Grand Turk – slow travel with us
North Caicos – Correy Forbes
South Caicos Sail Rock
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 25 February 2026: Staff of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) participated in a one‑day Professional Staff Development Workshop on Thursday, 19th February 2026. The session was facilitated by former DDME Director (2011–2021) and current Permanent Secretary of the Governor’s Office, Dr. Virginia Clerveaux.
The in-house workshop was organised by the DDME Training Unit, to focus on the National Disaster Management Framework, strengthening staff understanding of their roles and responsibilities within disaster management. The session also aimed to enhance the effectiveness of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) and reinforce inter‑agency coordination.
Drawing on her extensive experience in disaster management in the Turks and Caicos Islands, as well as several deployments to CDEMA member states including Haiti, The Bahamas, and Jamaica, Dr. Clerveaux provided practical insights that reinforced key concepts and clarified operational expectations. Staff members actively participated in discussions and shared recommendations to improve sub‑committee performance and overall departmental efficiency.
To support learning retention, the workshop incorporated pre‑ and post‑assessments, enabling participants to evaluate their understanding and track improvements.
Acting Director of DDME, Mr. Kevaun Lucas stated: “Investing in the continued development of our team is essential to strengthening national resilience. This and future planned workshops will help to reinforce our commitment to building a highly skilled, well‑coordinated workforce capable of leading and supporting disaster management efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands. I am proud of the team’s engagement and encouraged by the meaningful contributions they made throughout the session.”
This Professional Staff Development Workshop forms part of DDME’s ongoing commitment to enhancing internal capacity, strengthening operational coordination and improving overall departmental synergy as the agency continues to advance national preparedness and response capabilities.
Photo Captions:
Caribbean News
Liberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
Port of Spain, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO (February 24, 2026) — Liberty Caribbean, the operators of Flow, Liberty Business and BTC, recently served as Gold-Level Partner of the two-day Trinidad and Tobago Internet Governance Forum (TTIGF), themed “The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience”.
The Digital Divide is of particular interest to Liberty Caribbean and is being addressed through its Charitable Foundation across the region. Low broadband penetration in the Caribbean contributes to diminished opportunities for individuals, communities, and local economies, but with the support of funding partners, this gap can be addressed through a comprehensive programme – JUMP – that focuses on providing access, devices, and digital skills.
“Liberty Caribbean was proud to serve as Gold-Level Partner of the TTIGF because the conversations taking place here shape key digital
policies for multiple stakeholders,” said Simone Martin-Sulgan, Vice President and General Manager, Flow Trinidad.
“As technology accelerates at an unprecedented pace, we must ensure that innovation strengthens our societies rather than fragments them. The theme, ‘The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience,’ speaks directly to the work we do every day: building networks that are not only fast and reliable, but secure, inclusive and future-ready.”
Across the Caribbean, the digital divide remains one of the most pressing barriers to equitable growth. Low broadband penetration limits access to education, entrepreneurship and essential services, and that is why we are deeply committed to closing this gap.
Through the Liberty Caribbean Charitable Foundation and initiatives like the JUMP Programme, the company is expanding access to technology, affordable connectivity and digital skills training so that individuals and communities are empowered to participate fully in the digital economy.
Martin-Sulgan further stated “at Liberty Caribbean, we believe progress and responsibility must move in lock step. By investing in resilient networks, inclusive programmes and trusted partnerships, we are helping to build a Caribbean that is innovative, secure and prepared for the opportunities ahead.”
Topics covered during the Forum, with over 140 participants, included “Securing Critical Infrastructure”, Integrating AI into Digital Transformation”, “The Digital Divide”, The Human Cost of Innovation – Mental Health and Well-being in the Digital Age’, and AI, Cyber Resilience and Regional Innovation”.
Focused on the underlying mandate of the Conference theme thought leaders, innovators, policymakers, technologists, researchers, and community stakeholders were invited to explore how countries can evolve boldly without compromising values or long-term stability.
Photo Caption:
TTIGF – l-r Darren Campo, Regulatory & Compliance Officer; Yolande Agard-Simmons, Senior Manager Communications; and Kevon Swift, Senior Manager Government and Regulatory Affairs of Flow Trinidad in attendance at the Post Event Mixer at Caribbean Telecommunications Union’s Head Office in St Clair, Port of Spain
-
News4 days agoDDME Staff Strengthen Disaster Management Capacity Through Professional Development Workshop
-
News1 week agoMulti-Agency Enforcement Action Conducted in Five Cays
-
Caribbean News5 days agoLiberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
-
News4 days agoThe Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals