Guyana boosts influenza preparedness through surveillance, laboratory and vaccine planning efforts

Expanding surveillance and data sharing 

Guyana
has made significant progress in recent years in detecting, monitoring
and responding to influenza and other respiratory threats. To increase
the represtentativeness of the system and improve the timely detections
of increased influenza activity, Guyana increased the number of sentinel surveillance sites from four to twelve in less than two years.  

In
parallel, Guyana began weekly reporting of surveillance data to the Pan
American Health Organization (PAHO)/World Health Organization (WHO) via
FluNet and FluID – global platforms for tracking and analyzing global influenza trends. 

Strengthening laboratory capacity and global collaboration 

Another
major focus has been the certification of Guyana’s National Public
Health Reference Laboratory (NPHRL) as a WHO-recognized National
Influenza Centre. The government has made significant investments in
reagents, supplies and shipment of influenza-positive samples to WHO
Collaborating Centres – ensuring accurate diagnoses and supporting
regional influenza surveillance. 

 “This prestigious
accreditation marks a significant milestone in strengthening the
country’s capacity to monitor, detect, and respond to influenza and
other viral threats,” stated Guyana’s Ministry of Public Health.
“As part of Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS),
the NPHRL will play an integral role in the global surveillance network
that monitors the evolution of influenza viruses worldwide. This ensures
that public health responses are timely, evidence-based, and effective
in mitigating the risks posed by these viruses.”  

Advancing vaccination policy and pandemic preparedness  

To
further strengthen influenza control activities, Guyana has drafted a
seasonal influenza vaccination policy and engaged stakeholders in
discussions ahead of a planned 2025 rollout. The goal: protect
vulnerable populations and reduce strain on the health system.   

Preparedness
efforts also include finalization of a Health Multi-Hazard Emergency
Management Plan, featuring a dedicated respiratory pathogen pandemic
preparedness and response plan.  

Building resilience through coordinated public health investments 

Guyana’s
achievements demonstrate how coordinated action and strategic
investment can strengthen public health systems and improve influenza
preparedness. 

“Guyana is proud of its progress in influenza
surveillance, laboratory diagnostic capacity and vaccination,” said Dr
Frank C.S. Anthony, Minister of Health of Guyana. “The Ministry of
Health remains dedicated to strengthening these public health
capabilities for national, regional and global health security.”  

This
momentum signals a positive trajectory for Guyana’s ability to manage
public health emergencies – ensuring a healthier, more resilient future
for its people and the region.