PAHO Visit to Suriname: Strengthening Respiratory Virus Surveillance

From April 15 to 19, 2024, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) conducted a mission in Suriname to reinforce respiratory virus surveillance and enhance pandemic preparedness as part of the 2024-2025 Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Plan.

During the visit, the PAHO team toured three sentinel sites dedicated to Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) and Influenza-like Illness (ILI) surveillance in the capital, Paramaribo. Several challenges were identified, such as the need to improve data capture and adherence to case definitions, as well as the importance of strengthening regular training at these sites.

Additionally, a training session was held with the Public Health Bureau team to develop a weekly respiratory virus surveillance bulletin. The PISA methodology was used in this training, which will enable more effective monitoring of respiratory virus trends through the implementation of specific thresholds.

As part of the mission, the capabilities of Suriname’s National Influenza Laboratory were also assessed, with the aim of improving integrated surveillance of viruses such as influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2.

Finally, communication protocols and the strategy for sharing surveillance results were reviewed, with key recommendations provided to optimize processes and enhance the country’s preparedness for future health emergencies.

This mission demonstrates the commitment of both PAHO and Suriname to improving respiratory disease surveillance and ensuring better preparedness for potential pandemics in the future.