PAHO organizes an initial meeting to implement the Respiratory Mortality Surveillance network (PAHOMoMo)
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) held the initial meeting of the pilot project of the Respiratory Mortality Surveillance Network (PAHOMoMo). This virtual meeting brought together representatives from countries in the Americas, international organizations and public health experts to discuss the initial steps towards the implementation of this innovative network.
Objectives of the meeting
During the event, the concept and rationale for PAHOMoMo were presented, highlighting the importance of timely, efficient and standardized monitoring of respiratory mortality at the regional level. The main topics addressed included:
- The implementation of the network and its pilot phase.
- The experience of the countries in mortality surveillance.
- Next steps to consolidate the project.
In addition, interested countries were invited to share retrospective mortality data through a template provided, with the aim of performing preliminary analyses to be discussed at future meetings.
Expected progress of the project
The PAHOMoMo project seeks to complement respiratory disease surveillance in the region through a standardized real-time monitoring system. Based on the SARInet Plus network and adapting successful methodologies such as EuroMOMO, this network is expected to:
- Detect excess mortality during epidemic outbreaks.
- Provide key data to evaluate public health interventions.
- Promote the exchange of information and experiences among participating countries.
Next steps
The need for specific training and validation of statistical models based on historical data was highlighted. In addition, a generic protocol will be established to guide the implementation and analysis of the pilot results.
With the launch of this network and the support of SARInet Plus, PAHO reinforces its commitment to regional public health, promoting better preparedness and response to future respiratory threats.
