Guyana to Launch $15M Initiative to Boost Viral Disease Surveillance and Readiness
The Ministry of Health will launch a US$15 million project in March to strengthen surveillance systems, enhance laboratory capabilities, and recruit more specialists to combat viral diseases in Guyana.
Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony announced the three-year initiative on Friday, emphasizing that the project will address a wide range of viral diseases rather than focusing on any single virus.
Speaking to reporters after handing over $646 million worth of vector-control supplies, Dr. Anthony noted that while the global spread of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has raised concerns, there have been no detected cases in Guyana. The minister reassured the public that the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is equipped to diagnose HMPV and other pathogens.
“This is not a new disease—it’s been around for many years. It’s a cousin of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and has a relatively low fatality rate,” Dr. Anthony explained. He added that the disease can be managed successfully and that the ministry has been proactive in monitoring the situation globally.
“We’ve taken samples and sent them for diagnosis. If people become ill and seek medical attention or come in for testing, we will collect samples and make a diagnosis. This is standard practice for dealing with infectious diseases,” he said.
Dr. Anthony also highlighted the significant progress Guyana has made in managing viral diseases, noting that this work will continue with the funds allocated through the Pandemic Fund.
The initiative is expected to improve Guyana’s capacity to respond to infectious diseases and ensure public health readiness in the face of emerging global health challenges.
