One of the greatest threats currently facing the world is the possibility of a flu pandemic, US Secretary of Health and Human Services Michael Leavitt said in his address at the Pan American Health Organization’s annual Directing Council Meeting.
‘When it comes to influenza, we live in a global community, neighbour to neighbour, because a threat against one nation is a threat against the entire world,’ he said.
‘Our task now is to make sure when the first influenza pandemic of the 21st century strikes, as it surely will, that the global community is ready.’
The meeting, held at the end of September, brought together health ministers from across the Americas – including representatives from the Cayman Islands – at PAHO’s headquarters in Washington D.C.
Director General of World Health Organization Dr. Lee Jong-Wook said nations must be prepared for a flu pandemic.
‘There is a storm brewing that will test us all. We must anticipate it, and prepare to the very best of our combined ability,’ he said.
‘Forecasts indicate that the political, social and economic costs of such a pandemic will be huge. I cannot emphasize this enough. Failure to take this threat seriously and prepare appropriately will have catastrophic consequences.’
In response, Health Minister Eden acknowledged that a flu pandemic is a real threat. He further welcomed UK Department of Health and PAHO’s support in implementing the International Health Regulations and to combat the spread of a flu pandemic.
Other key public health topics on the agenda included malaria, the Millennium Development Goals, a regional strategy to control tuberculosis between 2005 and 2015, and access to care for people living with HIV/AIDS.
Mr. Eden also met with PAHO’s Dr. Hernan Montenegro, who is organizing the consultants who will assist in developing standards and inspection procedures for Cayman’s health care facilities.
He attended the CARICOM Ministers of Health Caucus as well, which was held before the PAHO meeting.
‘The Health Caucus identified obesity and related illnesses, as well as health care financing and health care regulations as the region’s main health concerns,’ he said.
‘Because Cayman has its share of obesity-related medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension and associated complications, I would like to work with the Minister of Education Alden McLaughlin to implement school-based initiatives to promote good health
‘If this happens very early in life, it will have a lasting impact,’ the Minister said.
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