In a major step to strengthen national health security, Guyana’s Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), has significantly expanded its sentinel surveillance system for respiratory viruses. Launched in April 2023, this initiative enhances the country’s capacity to detect, monitor, and respond to influenza and other respiratory threats, marking a substantial advancement in public health preparedness.
Over the past two years, the number of sentinel surveillance sites in Guyana has increased from four to twelve, strategically located to improve testing, service delivery, and timely outbreak detection. These sites collect data and samples from patients with Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) and Influenza-Like Illnesses (ILI), serving as critical watchpoints for emerging respiratory threats. The expansion also includes training and tools for frontline health workers, equipping them to better protect communities and respond effectively to outbreaks.
Guyana’s surveillance data is now integrated into global platforms such as FluNet and FluID, managed by PAHO/WHO, enabling the country to contribute to international influenza monitoring and response strategies. At the local level, health workers have received refresher training on case definitions, sample collection, and data reporting protocols to ensure consistent and high-quality surveillance across all sites.
Since August 2025, joint teams from the Ministry of Health and PAHO have conducted site visits to four sentinel locations, with further visits planned to the remaining sites. These assessments aim to reinforce capacity, improve sample quality, strengthen response measures, and enhance coordination between national and site-level teams. The initiative ensures that all regions are equipped with the necessary infrastructure, supplies, and trained personnel.
PAHO continues to provide technical support, including training on the PAHOFlu platform and assistance with data management challenges. This long-term partnership is focused on building a robust surveillance system capable of responding to current and future respiratory threats.
Guyana’s efforts are increasingly seen as a model for the Caribbean region, demonstrating how investment in early detection and data-driven responses can strengthen epidemic preparedness. By combining strategic site expansion, global integration, and sustained technical support, Guyana is setting a benchmark in respiratory virus surveillance and public health resilience.
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