Port-of-Spain, 26 August 2026 (PAHO): – The Pan American Health Organization/ World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) hosted an In-Person Technical Meeting and Integration Workshop from 19 to 21 August 2026 at the Ministry of Health Head Office in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. The meeting brought together surveillance specialists, laboratory experts, information systems professionals, and technical advisors to strengthen regional disease surveillance and improve the sharing of public health data.
This training represents an important investment in strengthening the capacity of Ministry of Health (MOH) staff to effectively carry out their roles and responsibilities. The workshop focused on advancing the implementation of VPD-SMART, a modern digital platform designed to support the surveillance of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, rubella, and acute flaccid paralysis. Since 2023, PAHO has been working across the Americas and the Caribbean to modernize disease surveillance systems and support faster, more efficient public health responses.
During the three-day meeting, participants explored ways to strengthen collaboration between epidemiological surveillance teams and laboratory services. Discussions centered on improving how syndromic surveillance for vaccine-preventable diseases such as Measles and Polio are securely shared and integrated into disease surveillance systems, allowing health authorities to access timely information for decision-making and outbreak response.
Technical sessions included demonstrations of the VPD-SMART platform, reviews of laboratory data workflows, and planning for a pilot initiative that will test the secure exchange of public health data across selected countries in the Caribbean. Participants also discussed data governance principles, emphasizing the importance of maintaining country ownership of health information while supporting regional cooperation and situational awareness.
By enhancing knowledge, skills, and practical competencies, participants are better equipped to implement evidence-based practices, improve the quality of health services, and respond more efficiently to emerging vaccine preventable diseases.
Furthermore, the training promotes a shared understanding of key concepts and procedures, fostering collaboration and consistency across teams and departments. Ultimately, building the technical capacity of MOH personnel contributes to stronger health systems, improved program outcomes, and better health and well-being for the population they serve.
