The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Mérieux Foundation USA (FMx USA) have signed a Framework Agreement to enhance laboratory systems and improve access to quality diagnostics across the Americas. The signing took place on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
The agreement establishes a framework for closer collaboration between PAHO and FMx USA to support countries in strengthening laboratory governance, improving surveillance systems, promoting responsible use of diagnostic resources to tackle epidemic-prone pathogens and antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and expanding digital tools for public health monitoring.
“Strong laboratory systems are essential for health security in the Americas, enabling early detection of threats, effective surveillance, and equitable access to diagnostics,” said PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa. “This partnership will help Member States address antimicrobial resistance and emerging health challenges, ultimately saving lives and boosting regional preparedness.”
Louis Delorme, CEO of the Mérieux Foundation USA, added, “Through this Framework Agreement, PAHO and FMx USA will collaborate to improve laboratory quality management systems, optimize laboratory-based surveillance, and foster coordination across human, animal, and environmental health sectors—particularly through the One Health approach.”
The agreement also commits both organizations to jointly develop field-based projects, provide training for laboratory professionals, and support the implementation of laboratory information systems. It emphasizes sharing expertise and data, and includes the creation of a joint working group to guide collaborative activities across the region.
Initial collaboration will focus on countries with vulnerable health systems and existing laboratory initiatives, such as Haiti and Brazil. Future projects will be defined through subsidiary agreements aligned with regional health priorities and PAHO’s technical cooperation strategies.
This partnership represents a major step toward building integrated, efficient laboratory systems in the Americas, strengthening preparedness and response to emerging health threats across the region.
