Castle Bruce, Dominica, 31 July 2026 (PAHO/WHO) – The Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) presented 25 copies of the recently revised Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) manuals to the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services (MOHWSS) during a Health Fair held in Castle Bruce under the theme “Stronger Together for Healthy Living.” The donation supports ongoing efforts to strengthen immunization services and enhance the capacity of healthcare professionals across Dominica.
The donation reflects the continued collaboration between PAHO/WHO and the Government of Dominica to strengthen the national immunization programme and improve health outcomes. As part of its support, PAHO/WHO provided technical assistance for the revision of the EPI Manual and funded the printing of the updated publication. The revised manual provides healthcare professionals working in the primary care and institutional health settings with up-to-date technical guidance to support the delivery of safe, effective, and high-quality immunization services.
Reflecting on the donation, Ms. Shanon Seraphine, Public Health Nurse and Acting EPI Manager, highlighted the value of PAHO's continued partnership in strengthening Dominica's immunization programme.
“Your continued technical support and partnership are instrumental in advancing our national immunization goals. Please be assured that these manuals will be put to good use as we continue to enhance the capacity of our healthcare professionals and improve immunization services for the people of Dominica.”
PAHO/WHO Country Program Specialist Dr. Nicole Slack-Liburd highlighted PAHO’s ongoing support to Dominica’s EPI Programme, emphasizing that immunization remains one of the most successful public health interventions for preventing communicable diseases.
She noted that PAHO’s support extends beyond the revision and publication of the EPI Manual to include training of healthcare workers, procurement of safe and affordable vaccines, provision of vaccine-related equipment and supplies, and support for vaccination outreach campaigns among other immunization initiatives.
The updated EPI Manual will serve as an important resource for healthcare professionals throughout Dominica, helping to ensure that immunization services are delivered in accordance with current standards and best practices. The initiative reflects the shared commitment of PAHO/WHO and the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services to protecting communities from vaccine-preventable diseases and advancing universal access to quality health services.
The donation forms part of PAHO's ongoing support to Member States to maintain strong immunization programmes and protect populations from vaccine-preventable diseases.
