Guyana Boosts Public Health Preparedness Under the PIP Framework

In recent years, Guyana has taken bold steps to strengthen its capacity to detect, prevent, and respond to influenza outbreaks and other public health threats. Building on the support of the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework a global initiative coordinated by the World Health Organization (WHO), the country has expanded surveillance networks, improved data management, and enhanced laboratory capabilities, placing it on a promising path toward greater health security.

Key Achievements in 2024

1. Expansion of Sentinel Surveillance

One of Guyana’s most significant milestones in 2024 was the expansion of its sentinel surveillance network. The number of functional sentinel sites increased from four to 12, allowing for more comprehensive and timely monitoring of influenza activity. This strengthened surveillance system has improved the country’s overall capacity for detecting respiratory illnesses and other emerging threats.

2. Improved Reporting Systems

To ensure rapid information-sharing with global partners, Guyana began submitting weekly influenza reports to the World Health Organization (WHO) via FluNet in April 2023 and to FluID in 2024. This timely and accurate reporting not only enhances transparency but also helps guide international response efforts when influenza activity surges.

3. Data Management Advancements

Guyana introduced the PAHO-Flu data management system to streamline data collection, analysis, and reporting. This platform, coupled with targeted training sessions for local health personnel, has bolstered the nation’s capacity to manage large volumes of surveillance data effectively. Enhanced data management fosters better decision-making during health emergencies.

4. Strengthening the National Public Health Reference Laboratory

Another major focus has been the journey to certify Guyana’s National Public Health Reference Laboratory (NPHRL) as a WHO-recognized National Influenza Center. The government has made significant investments in procuring reagents and supplies for the lab and in shipping influenza-positive samples to WHO Collaborating Centers. These measures will ensure accurate diagnoses and support regional influenza surveillance.

5. Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Plans

Guyana is well on its way toward introducing a seasonal influenza vaccination program, having drafted a policy and initiated stakeholder discussions. Once launched in 2025, this initiative will further protect vulnerable populations from influenza-related complications.

6. Emergency Preparedness and Response

Recognizing the importance of cross-sector coordination, Guyana has developed a Health Multi-Hazard Emergency Management Plan with a dedicated Pandemic Preparedness Plan. Key stakeholders have participated in workshops outlining roles and responsibilities for preparedness, response, and recovery phases—paving the way for a unified, comprehensive approach to future health emergencies.

Perspectives for 2025

Looking ahead, Guyana aims to sustain and expand upon the achievements it realized in 2024. The following priorities form the backbone of its 2025 roadmap:

• Sentinel Site Support: Provide additional mentoring to sentinel sites while further refining the PAHO-Flu data management system.
• Laboratory Capacity: Facilitate ongoing procurement of essential laboratory supplies and expedite sample shipment to WHO Collaborating Centers.
• National Influenza Center Certification: Host a sensitization event to raise awareness about the certification process for the NPHRL, underscoring the lab’s critical role in national and regional health security.
• Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Launch: Finalize vaccination policies and roll out the seasonal influenza immunization campaign, prioritizing high-risk groups.
• Enhanced Emergency Management: Strengthen the Health Multi-Hazard Emergency Management Plan through additional training and stakeholder engagement, bolstering Guyana’s readiness to tackle crises of all kinds.

A Model for Regional Health Security

Guyana’s progress under the PIP Framework is a testament to how coordinated efforts and strategic investments can lead to robust, scalable public health systems. By institutionalizing surveillance, fostering data-sharing, and building laboratory infrastructure, the country has built a solid foundation for influenza preparedness. As it moves into 2025, Guyana is poised to sustain these gains and offer insights for other nations seeking to fortify their health systems.
This momentum signals a positive trajectory for Guyana’s capacity to manage public health emergencies more effectively—ultimately ensuring a healthier and more resilient future for its population and the broader region.