The Caribbean’s unique vulnerabilities — from small population bases and porous borders to economic dependence on tourism and the escalating impacts of climate change — demand coordinated, context-specific, and forward-looking solutions. Strengthening our collective capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to health threats is, therefore, not optional, it is imperative.
“The [PAHO-CARICOM Joint Sub-regional Cooperation Strategy (JSCS) 2025-2029] is a continuation of a process. CARICOM has prioritised health outcomes for a long time, and this long-standing commitment of CARICOM will continue.”
“The [One Health] approach significantly changes how the Region approaches community health promotion and public health education strategies.” – Dike Noel, Manager, Communications, CARICOM Secretariat
CARPHA Calls for Regional Action: “Stop Disease Transmission, Start Source Reduction!
Executive Directors and other senior officials of Caribbean Community Institutions have updated Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett about the adverse effect of the current geopolitical developments on their ability to deliver essential services to the Region.
The developments were highlighted during a virtual meeting which the Secretary-General convened with Executive Directors and other senior officials of Community Institutions on Tuesday, 29 April.
“The Caribbean Region is currently experiencing peak travel and tourism season, marked by increased air and cruise-ship travel, which is typically associated with a rise in respiratory illnesses among both travellers and local populations. The concurrent occurrence of multiple respiratory outbreaks, as seen in China, poses a risk of straining health systems and response efforts.”