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PAHO issues health recommendations for travelers and attendees of the 2026 FIFA World Cup
“With Health, We All Win” campaign encourages simple steps to stay safe and enjoy the eventWashington, D.C., June 8, 2026 (PAHO) — The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued new public health recommendations for travelers and people attending mass gatherings during the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, which will be held in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
How integrating tradition and self-care has strengthened public health in the Americas
On 13 May 2026, a regional dialogue for the Americas titled, Innovative Experiences to Strengthen Health and Self-Care through Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine, was hosted by EsSalud, the government agency responsible for social security and health care in Peru.The event brought together representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), WHO collaborating centres, the health sector and academia. It presented regional perspectives from BrBolivia, Brazil, Mexico and Peru to explore how self-care and traditional medicine can strengthen public health, empower communities and support more inclusive models of care. Across all four countries, a clear message emerged: traditional medicine is not being positioned as an alternative to formal systems, but as a way to strengthen them. In the Americas region, the challenge is to consolidate intercultural and holistic care, with the aim of strengthening the healthcare system – making care more preventive, culturally relevant and community-based.Peru: institutionalizing complementary care over 28 years Dr Martha Villar López from EsSalud Peru demonstrated how integration can be institutionalized over time. With nearly three decades of investment, including a research programme dating back to 1998, traditional medicine is now embedded within public health infrastructure. EsSalud’s flagship programme, Reforma de Vida, operating as Prevenir, takes multidisciplinary teams into workplaces to reduce and detect risk factors for chronic noncommunicable diseases. Education cycles are structured around three pillars: celestial nourishment, focused on life purpose and movement; terrestrial nourishment, centred on regional food and healthy diets; and human nourishment, addressing identity, relationships, stress and spirituality. Grounded in Andean cosmovision and the principle of the ayllu, the programme aligns with local cultural values. Since 2007, it has trained over 6600 health leaders, certified more than 3100 health-friendly organizations and built alliances with nearly 11 000 employers.Bolivia: legal recognition and medical pluralism Adelino Pau Carpacheco, an 82-year-old Callawaya healer, described working with more than 220 medicinal plants, supported by deep generational knowledge. Traditional healers and plant medicine are highly respected in the country. Bolivia’s contribution also highlighted the role of policy in enabling integration. Through Law 459, traditional medicine has been formally recognized within a legal framework and led the country to medical pluralism where traditional medicine coexists with biomedicine, and both are now offered free of charge through the public health system. Mexico: preserving Indigenous knowledge and reinventing food culture Mexico presented two complementary approaches focused on knowledge preservation and food systems. In Veracruz, communities partnered with a university to safeguard Totonac traditional medicine through a diploma programme launched in 2019. This collaboration has already produced practical outputs, including manuals and a dictionary, helping to sustain knowledge at risk due to migration and generational change. Alongside this, Dr Hernán García, Directorate of Traditional Medicine and Intercultural Development – Mexico, explained how the Dieta de la Milpa programme addresses Mexico’s dual burden of malnutrition and rising noncommunicable diseases. Rooted in traditional Mayan cultivation systems and ingredients, it promotes healthier diets through community-led, intercultural approaches involving local authorities, Indigenous leaders and cooks. By reconnecting food, culture and health, it offers a practical pathway to prevention. Brazil: community therapy as a public health tool Brazil’s experience centred on Integrative Community Therapy, a methodology developed over 40 years ago by Dr Adalberto Barreto and now used in more than 47 countries. Therapy circles create spaces where participants share experiences and coping strategies, building social support networks at very low cost. Within Brazil’s Unified Health System, the approach has expanded rapidly since its inclusion in national policy in 2017. By 2025, more than five million integrative practice procedures were delivered annually in primary care, with registrations for this therapy increasing by over 500% in eight years. The main challenge now is equity, with access still concentrated in urban areas such as São Paulo. A shared regional direction against a global backdrop Drawing these experiences together, Dr Natalia Aldana of the TCIM Network of the Americas highlighted the shared outcomes of the interventions discussed. Such approaches strengthen healthy behaviours, social networks and community resilience; they are low-cost, adaptable and enable active participation in care, while showing potential to reduce the burden of noncommunicable diseases.The regional momentum mirrors a broader global shift. Dr João Paulo Souz, Director of BIREME (Latin American and Caribbean Center on Health Sciences Information), the specialized center of PAHO/WHO, emphasized that the Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034 promotes a vision centred on people, evidence and integrated use. He noted that health should be understood through the relationships between people, community, nature and spirituality. Self-care interventions as a critical pathway towards universal health coverage Dr Manjulaa Narasimhan, Unit Head for Sexual Health and Well-being across the Life-course at WHO, delivered a presentation titled Advancing Self-Care in Traditional Medicine: Aligning the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034 with the WHO Self-Care Framework, co-authored by Dr Geetha Krishnan Gopalakrishna Pillai, Unit Head for Research, Data and Innovation at the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre. WHO recommends self-care interventions for every country and economic setting as a critical path to reach universal health coverage – and traditional medicine acts as a bridge for self-care. Dr Narasimhan explained that traditional medicine contributes most effectively to self-care when embedded directly into primary health care, not operating in parallel, siloed systems. This, she stated, “is possibly the only sustainable way to deliver continuity of care that meets the needs, rights and priorities of communities and individuals”. The Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034 is a move towards a more people-centred approach to health care that champions holistic approaches to health equity and patient autonomy.The integration of traditional medicine and self-care requires collaboration across disciplines, clear referral pathways, trained health and care workers, and strong leadership that supports integration. The WHO self-care competency framework defines 10 key competencies for health and care workers to support self-care in their clinical practice, supported by the WHO guideline on self-care interventions for health and well-being. These documents help health-care workers safeguard their own well-being and ensure that care is consistent, safe and grounded in shared standards and values.Together, the discussion through this dialogue points to a fundamental shift in how health systems are designed in the region, and globally, towards models that are more inclusive, culturally-grounded and responsive to the needs of the communities they serve. It is a move towards a system where traditional medicine is respected and responsibly integrated, where self-care provides empowerment and evidence-based care, and where health systems are supportive rather than being distant from these systems.Traditional medicine perspectives from Bolivia, Mexico and Peru - WHO's "Restoring Balance" seriesInnovative Experiences to Strengthen Health and Self-Care through Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine was streamed in Spanish, with Spanish and Portuguese subtitles. Recordings are available through the CABSIN YouTube channel with Portuguese subtitles and on the BVS MTCI Americas YouTube channel with Spanish subtitles. Dr Narasimhan’s session can be watched in English on both channels.
Mexico Joins PAHO's Regional Mental Health Survey
Mexico joins a 17-country PAHO/WHO survey on doctors' and nurses' mental health, with data collection set for September-October 2026.
PAHO: Health tax levels in the Americas remain too low to curb harmful consumption of alcohol and sugary drinks
Washington, D.C., 9 June 2026 (PAHO) – Levels of health taxes on alcohol and sugar‑sweetened beverages in the Americas remain too low to significantly reduce consumption and prevent noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), even as the Region records some of the highest consumption levels in the world, according to two reports released by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
Hoopaholic’s Gazette: DM, PK, NCAA, WC & BS
So be true to your school now/ Just like you would to your girl (or guy) OK, maybe the wisdom of Brian Wilson doesn’t have much if anything to do with today’s entry. But I did hear it on the radio today, and the Bard of 60s teen culture was all that and fostered us […]
The Alliance for Primary Health Care in the Americas marks two years and formally welcomes Bolivia and Uruguay as members
PAHO, the World Bank, and the IDB initiative has driven health system transformation and aligned more than one billion dollars in investments across five countries. Brazil expressed its support, signing a letter of intent.Rio de Janeiro, 28 January 2026 — The Alliance for Primary Health Care (PHC) in the Americas, a joint initiative of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the World Bank (WB), and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), is celebrating its second anniversary with achievements in transforming health systems across the region.
PAHO Director and President of the Dominican Republic Strengthen Health Cooperation and Address National Priorities
Santo Domingo, December 3, 2025 (PAHO) – The Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), Jarbas Barbosa, met today with the President of the Dominican Republic, Luis Abinader, at the Presidential Palace to deepen bilateral cooperation and review strategic areas to continue strengthening the country’s health systems.The meeting was also attended by the Minister of Public Health, Víctor Atallah; PAHO’s Representative in the Dominican Republic, Alba María Ropero Álvarez; and the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rubén Silié.
Chilean Minister of Health elected President of PAHO’s 63rd Directing Council
Washington, D.C., 28 September 2026 (PAHO) – Chile’s Minister of Health, Dr. May Chomalí Garib, was elected today as President of the 63rd Directing Council of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) during the opening session of one of the Organization’s governing bodies.Dr. Chomalí assumes the leadership of PAHO’s Directing Council for the Americas, succeeding Lisa Cummins, Minister of Health and Wellness of Barbados.
Health Ministers approve new regional strategy to prevent and control dengue and other arboviral diseases in the Americas
Washington, D.C., 1 October 2026 (PAHO) – Member States of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) approved a common regional framework aimed at strengthening surveillance, prevention, preparedness and integrated response to dengue and other arboviral diseases across the Americas over the next decade.
5 winners and losers from Patriots’ win over Ravens
Here is who caught our eye, for better or worse, in the Patriots’ Week 16 win.
Hoopaholic’s Gazette: A Ruthian Call & Late Season Peach
What does the surprise appearance of some late season peaches at Paul’s have to do with Babe Ruth and U of L hoops? Read on, should you be intrigued. The peaches — from Idaho of all places — are pretty pretty good (to use the voice and vernacular of the assistant who convinced Obama to […]
PAHO strengthens regional dialogue to prevent and respond to violence against health workers
Washington, D.C., September 18, 2026 (PAHO) – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) brought together about 400 participants from 34 countries in the Region for a virtual seminar to analyze the challenges posed by violence against health workers and promote comprehensive responses for its prevention and management. Additionally, a new factsheet titled Preventing violence against health workers in the Region of the Americas was presented.
Inter-American Mental Health Week calls for intersectoral action to improve mental health in the Americas
More than 185 million people live with mental health conditions in the Americas. Addressing the challenge requires action beyond the health sector.Washington, D.C., 6 October 2026 (PAHO) – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Organization of American States (OAS) are marking Inter-American Mental Health Week 2026 (October 5–9) with a call to strengthen intersectoral action to improve mental health and well-being across the Americas, where more than 185 million people live with a mental health condition.
CARICOM endorses new Action Plan on Health and Climate Change developed with PAHO/WHO support
Ministers of Health from the Caribbean Community endorsed the regional framework during the 53rd Meeting of the Council for Human and Social Development, Health (COHSOD-Health), in Washington, D.C.
PAHO launches US$24 million appeal to support health response following devastating earthquakes in Venezuela
Washington, D.C., 1 July 2026 (PAHO) – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has launched a US$24 million emergency appeal to support the first six months of the health response and early recovery following the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on 24 June.
PAHO Director calls for country ownership and regional solidarity in reshaping global health architecture
Berlin, 15 October 2026 (PAHO) – Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Director and WHO Regional Director for the Americas Dr. Jarbas Barbosa called for countries and regional institutions to have a stronger role in shaping ongoing reforms of the global health system during the World Health Summit 2026 in Berlin this week, arguing that clearer responsibilities across national, regional and global levels can reduce duplication and help limited health resources deliver greater impact.
Nearly 40% of disease burden in the Americas could be averted, PAHO report finds
Health in the Americas 2026 shows that millions of years of healthy life are being lost to preventable conditions and calls for stronger primary health care and smarter health investments
PAHO’s Annual Meeting Opens Amid Political Tension And Calls For Stronger Regional Cooperation
At the opening of the Pan American Health Organization’s (PAHO)'s annual meeting on Monday, officials celebrated progress made in tackling regional health
US Proposal To Eliminate PAHO Funding Raises Alarm Over Health Security In Western Hemisphere
The oldest multilateral health organization in the world, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), is fighting across dozens of countries against many of
From foot-and-mouth disease to One Health: 75 years of regional cooperation for veterinary public health in the Americas
Established in 1951 to help countries combat foot-and-mouth disease, PAHO's Pan American Center for Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Veterinary Public Health (PANAFTOSA) has spent more than seven decades advancing regional cooperation. Its work has helped drive progress toward the eradication of the disease while strengthening the Americas' response to zoonotic diseases, food safety threats, antimicrobial resistance, and emerging health risks.
Honduras Joins the Alliance for Primary Health Care in the Americas
Tegucigalpa, Honduras, August 27, 2026 (PAHO) —Honduras has joined the Alliance for Primary Health Care (PHC) in the Americas, a regional initiative led by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and the World Bank to support countries in strengthening primary health care through coordinated investments, innovation, and technical cooperation.
PAHO mobilizes emergency health response following earthquakes in Venezuela
Caracas, Venezuela/Washington, D.C., 25 June 2026 (PAHO) – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has activated its emergency response mechanisms to support the health response in Venezuela following two magnitude 7.5 earthquakes that struck the country on June 24.
Disability inclusion in health systems and emergency management remains uneven across Latin America and the Caribbean, new report finds
Washington, D.C., July 20, 2026 (PAHO) — Despite progress in laws, policies and programs aimed at advancing the rights of persons with disabilities across Latin America and the Caribbean, many continue to face barriers to accessing health services and emergency care on an equal basis with others, according to a new report released by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and the Inter-American Network of Persons with Disabilities and Their Families (RIADIS).
World Birth Defects Day: “Behind every diagnosis is a story that deserves to be supported through strong public policies and strengthened health systems”
Interview with Pablo Durán, Regional Advisor on Perinatal and Neonatal Health at PAHOWashington, D.C., March 3, 2026 (PAHO) – Today marks World Birth Defects Day, an opportunity to raise awareness about a group of conditions that remain one of the leading causes of neonatal mortality and childhood disability in the Region of the Americas. Although many can be prevented or treated, thousands of families each year face diagnoses that require specialized care, continuous follow-up, and comprehensive support.
World Tuberculosis Day 2026: Primary health care key to a more accessible, people-centered response
In the Americas, an estimated 350,000 people fell ill with tuberculosis in 2024, and nearly 77,000 were not diagnosed, highlighting the need to bring diagnosis and treatment closer to communities.
Three months after Hurricane Melissa: PAHO continues supporting health system recovery across the Caribbean
Washington, DC, 28 January 2026 (PAHO)- Ninety days after Hurricane Melissa swept across parts of the Caribbean, countries are transitioning from emergency response toward recovery—while continuing to confront public health risks linked to damaged infrastructure, disrupted services, and heightened vulnerability to disease. The Category 5 storm made landfall first in Jamaica on 28 October 2025, causing widespread damage in several Caribbean nations, mainly across Jamaica, Cuba and Haiti, and placing sustained pressure on national health systems.
Bahamian public health leader Dr. Merceline Dahl-Regis receives WHO Global Health Leaders Award at 79th World Health Assembly
Geneva, Switzerland, 18 May 2026 (PAHO) — Dr. Merceline Dahl-Regis of The Bahamas was recognized today with the World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General’s Global Health Leaders Award during the High-Level Welcome of the Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly (WHA79), honoring her lifelong contribution to public health in the Americas and globally.
WHO Step-by-Step programme recognized as a promising innovation for mental health in humanitarian settings
WHO, in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and Lebanon’s National Mental Health Programme, showcased Step-by-Step at the World Bank Group’s biennial Fragility Forum in Washington, DC. The forum convened more than 1500 representatives from governments, international organizations and civil society to advance the development agenda in the world’s most fragile and crisis-affected communities. WHO was invited to demonstrate Step-by-Step – a digital self-help intervention for depression, alongside innovations presented by Stanford University and Google. The World Bank Group selected Step-by-Step from among more than 50 innovations that they reviewed in the lead up to the Forum.About Step-by-StepStep-by-Step is a free digital tool developed by WHO in collaboration with Lebanon’s National Mental Health Programme and other partners, that helps people manage depression and anxiety on their own, with light guidance from a trained supporter. It uses a picture-based story to walk users through evidence-based techniques for managing common mental health conditions. Users complete five modules, with weekly contacts – of around 15 minutes each – from a trained non-specialist helper, such as a community health worker.Evidence-basedClinical trials in Lebanon involving nearly 1250 participants – including 680 Lebanese participants and 569 Syrian participants – showed that Step-by-Step significantly reduced depression, anxiety and stress, and improved daily functioning. By the end of the programme, a reduction in depressive symptoms of more than 50% was reported by almost half (46%) of Lebanese participants and more than one third (37%) of Syrian participants compared to approximately 14% of those who did not use the programme. Cost-effectiveness analyses further suggest that Step-by-Step may offer a cost-saving response to depression in humanitarian emergencies in low- and middle-income countries.Used globallyStep-by-Step is already in use nationwide in Lebanon and Thailand, as part of each country’s mental health system. In India, the NGO – Kaya Guides – has adapted Step-by-Step for delivery through a widely used messaging app. Together, these programmes have provided thousands of people with evidence-based support for depression. The content is freely available from the WHO website for any organization or country to adapt for their own context.A new implementation guideThe Fragility Forum coincided with the recent launch of WHO’s new practical guide: Psychological self-help interventions: delivering self-help for individuals, featuring Step-by-Step and Doing What Matters in Times of Stress (WHO, 2026). The guide is designed to help governments, health workers, organizations and planners bring evidence-based mental health support to more people, particularly in low-resource and crisis-affected settings.
PAHO regional meeting of health ministers concludes with new measures to strengthen health security and address key health threats
Health authorities approved new regional strategies to strengthen preparedness for health emergencies, tackle antimicrobial resistance, curb dengue and other arboviral diseases, and improve food safety, while advancing access to vaccines, medicines and other essential health technologies across the Americas.
RedFESP advances its 2026 regional agenda to strengthen the Essential Public Health Functions
Washington, D.C., December 3, 2025 — The Network on Essential Public Health Functions for strengthening stewardship and governance (RedFESP), established in September 2025 with the technical support of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), held its second virtual meeting to advance the development of the 2026 work plan. Institutions from Costa Rica, El Salvador, Mexico, Panama, Peru, the Dominican Republic, and Uruguay participated.
New sports bar to open at former Harpo's site
The bar aims to revive a long-vacant Arapahoe Avenue location.
Gideon announces candidacy for Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff in 2027
A Statement from Chris Gideon:
Childhood lead exposure remains a preventable health threat in the Americas
Lead exposure affects up to 815 million children worldwide. During International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, PAHO highlights the need to identify sources of exposure, strengthen surveillance, and protect children from the harmful effects of lead.
Chile becomes the first country in the Americas to be verified by WHO for the elimination of leprosy
WHO, together with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), congratulates Chile for becoming the first country in the Americas – and the second globally – to be officially verified as having eliminated leprosy disease.
Venezuela earthquake health response enters early recovery phase as focus shifts to restoring essential health services
Washington, D.C., 14 July 2026 (PAHO) – Nearly three weeks after the devastating earthquakes struck Venezuela on 24 June, the health response is entering a critical early recovery phase focused on restoring essential health services, strengthening referral networks and preventing secondary public health emergencies, according to PAHO's latest
PAHO: Strengthening El Niño raises growing health risks across the Americas
Drought, food insecurity, dengue, wildfires, and flooding are already affecting several countries across the region as El Niño intensifies.Washington, D.C., September 18, 2026 (PAHO) – El Niño continues to strengthen and could have significant public health impacts across the Americas in the coming months, according to the Pan American Health Organization’s (PAHO) first regional situation report on the phenomenon.
PAHO Director calls for strengthened health legislation and primary care during visit to the Dominican Republic
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, December 1, 2025 (PAHO) – The Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, today urged countries in the region to strengthen health legislation and reinforce primary health care, key pillars for more equitable, resilient, and sustainable health systems.
Americas advance on healthy aging, but gaps remain as 2030 approaches
Washington, D.C., 6 October 2026 (PAHO) – Countries in the Americas have made progress in policies, health services and monitoring to support healthy aging, but gaps in financing, implementation and long-term care remain, according to regional findings from the 2026 midterm review of the United Nations Decade of Healthy Aging (2021–2030).
Special entertainment planned for Senior Safety Workshops
A Senior Safety Workshop today will feature special Cinco de Mayo entertainment, according to Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office.
Hoopaholic’s Gazette: Will Something Wicked This Way Come?
In a week, live from Lawrence, Kansas, Louisville basketball fans will get a sense of what’s to come in the ’26-’27 campaign, without it counting as a W or L. Maybe. Depending on whether Jefferson Circuit Court Judge Brian Edwards issues a ruling, which will tell us — at least for a moment if not […]
PAHO expands health response as Venezuela faces mounting health risks after devastating earthquakes
Caracas, Venezuela/Washington, D.C., 30 June 2026 (PAHO) – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is expanding its support to Venezuela's Ministry of Health following the two powerful earthquakes that struck the country on 24 June, deploying technical experts, coordinating international Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs), assessing damaged health facilities, and mobilizing emergency medical supplies to support lifesaving care and reduce the risk of disease outbreaks.
2 commissioner seats up for grabs in Arapahoe County
Two seats for Arapahoe County Board of Commissioners are up for grabs in November in Districts 2 and 4.
WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region and Pan American Health Organization sign agreement to strengthen hospital resilience
25 February 2026 (EMRO/PAHO)—WHO’s Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) have signed a Memorandum of Arrangement to strengthen collaboration on making hospitals safer and better prepared for health emergencies and disasters. At a time of growing instability and constrained resources, this collaboration positions hospitals as a dependable anchor for communities, ensuring they remain open, functional, and capable of delivering life-saving care when it matters most.
Overcrowding, lack of clean water among biggest health risks from Venezuela quakes says PAHO
The biggest risks to residents' health following devastating twin earthquakes that ripped across Venezuela's northern coast last month include interruptions to regular medical care, overcrowding in shelters and lack of access to clean water, Jarbas Barbosa, the director of the Pan American Health Organization, said on Thursday.
Overcrowded Shelters, Poor Water Access Pose Health Risks After Venezuela Quakes, PAHO Says
By Julia Symmes Cobb July 9 (Reuters) - The biggest health risks following twin earthquakes that ripped across Venezuela's northern coast last month include interruptions to regular medical care, crowded shelters and lack of access to clean water, the head of the Pan American Health Organization ...
PAHO and The University of the West Indies postgraduate programme strengthens health leadership in the Caribbean
Since 2022, the Postgraduate Diploma and Certificate in Health Policy and Health Systems has helped strengthen regional capacity to address challenges such as health workforce shortages, migration and growing demand for health services.
Hoopaholic’s Gazette: Four Questions
Calm down, I know it is football season. I’ll be tuned shortly. Akron at Wake Forest. Will it be the first Mac surprise of the season at ACC’s expense? Coach Prime back in ‘Lanta. I know the Cardinals have a huge nationally televised prime time opener against an SEC power just days away in NashVegas. […]
Situation Report No.11: Earthquakes in Venezuela 2026 (M7.2 and M7.5)
Nearly three months after the 24 June 2026 earthquakes in Venezuela, the response has moved into early recovery while sustaining essential emergency operations. Efforts now center on maintaining continuity of care across mental health, sexual and reproductive health, maternal and neonatal care, NCDs, and rehabilitation, alongside restoring affected facilities, supporting transitional camps, and strengthening Health Cluster coordination as Emergency Medical Teams and international partners withdraw. Health system recovery is advancing, with 16 ASICs and 356 health facilities assessed (61% operational) and rehabilitation progressing under CERF, CFE and US funding, while fluctuating electricity, medication refrigeration and emergency-generator gaps continue to challenge the safe continuity of essential health services. Public health surveillance and prevention remain active, with 47,145 cumulative vaccine doses administered and 556 health professionals trained, while intensified surveillance in La Guaira and Miranda and mounting environmental risks from tropical rains and heatwaves continue to require sustained vector-control and water/sanitation action. Contraception remains the most consistent unmet need across assessed shelters, particularly among adolescents and young women, while mental health needs continue to rise across the transitional camps amid limited supplies and specialized personnel. PAHO/WHO continues to support the response with critically needed medical supplies and medicines, having shipped 46.6 metric tons to Venezuela to date, benefiting 72 actors and reaching 117,714 people with treatment through PAHO and partner donations, while sustained technical and logistical support to the Ministry of Popular Power for Health (MPPS) has strengthened the national supply chain and ensured the continuity of health services through the coordination, reception, and mobilization of international donations of essential medical products.
The African roots of three Colorado leaders
Colorado’s political transformation is measured in many ways. A once reliably red state (with asterisks) became purple and is now a rather deep blue. For better or worse, probably the latter, power is ever more consolidated along the Front Range corridor. Counties such as Arapahoe, Jefferson, and Larimer, once Republican strongholds, are now at the […]
Innovative country experiences show how primary health care can accelerate health system transformation in the Americas
Barbados, Bolivia, the Dominican Republic and Guyana shared experiences on strengthening Primary Health Care through targeted actions in health workforce, services organization and system’s planning during the 63rd PAHO Directing Council.Washington, D.C., 29 September, 2026 (PAHO) – Innovative approaches to transform health systems based on primary health care (PHC) were highlighted today during a briefing session at the 63rd Directing Council of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
PAHO and Sint Maarten sign Country Cooperation Strategy to strengthen health system and improve health outcomes
Washington, D.C., 29 September 2026 (PAHO) – The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) and the Government of Sint Maarten today signed the 2026–2031 Country Cooperation Strategy (CCS), establishing a six-year framework to guide cooperation to strengthen the country’s health system and improve the health and well-being of its population.
The Americas are making progress in health but must accelerate action on emerging challenges, says PAHO Director
At the opening of the 63rd Directing Council, Dr. Jarbas Barbosa highlighted the Region’s public health gains, called for stronger regional cooperation, and underscored priorities including primary health care, vaccination, digital health and emergency preparedness.
LIVE: Six years on from COVID-19, is the world ready for the next pandemic?
COVID-19 killed millions, shattered health systems and brought the global economy to a virtual standstill. World leaders are meeting Friday to review the lessons learned and cement a new approach to prevention and preparation for the next pandemic. Hopes are high that a World Health Organization-led international agreement can move forward.
PAHO Walk for Health brings together staff, families, partners and delegates ahead of 63rd Directing Council
Washington, D.C., September 27, 2026 (PAHO) — On the eve of the 63rd Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Directing Council, PAHO staff, families, friends, delegates from Member States, partners and community members came together for the 2026 PAHO Walk for Health, highlighting the importance of physical activity, healthy environments and social connection.
PAHO and Panamerican Trauma Society join forces to expand care for injured people during emergencies in the Americas
Five-year collaboration will strengthen training and preparedness, expand access to specialized clinical expertise, and promote knowledge exchange to help countries rapidly scale up trauma and emergency care during disasters and other health emergencies.
The Center for Health and Human Rights, the Georgetown University Global Health Institute, the Georgetown University Americas Institute, and the Georgetown University Science, Technology, and International Affairs Program in Conversation with PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa
On April 30, 2026, the Center for Health and Human Rights, the Georgetown University Global Health Institute, the Georgetown University Americas Institute, and the Georgetown University Science, Technology, and International
PAHO and MSD for Mothers sign agreement to reduce preventable maternal deaths in Guatemala and the Dominican Republic
Two-year initiative will support countries to reduce maternal mortality, prevent unintended repeat adolescent pregnancies, and strengthen efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and other infectionsWashington, D.C., 30 September 2026 (PAHO) — The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and MSD for Mothers have signed an agreement to help reduce preventable maternal deaths in Guatemala and the Dominican Republic by strengthening adolescent health and improving maternal health services.
Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Week 2026
Across Latin America and the Caribbean, thousands of girls become mothers during adolescence each year. While many face significant challenges, one pregnancy should not determine a girl's future. With access to quality health services, education, social support, and informed reproductive choices, adolescent mothers can continue pursuing their goals, raising healthy children, and contributing to their communities.
Jarbas Barbosa: Cervical Cancer and Digital Health Priorities Ahead of PAHO Governance Meetings
Jarbas Barbosa: Cervical Cancer and Digital Health Priorities Ahead of PAHO Governance Meetings / cancer, cervical cancer, cervical cancer prevention, Jarbas
PAHO marks 50 years of strengthening health emergency preparedness and response in the Americas
Washington, D.C., 28 September 2026 (PAHO) – When two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela in June 2026, health authorities and emergency responders faced an enormous test. Within hours, regional emergency coordination mechanisms were activated to support the national and international response. Almost immediately after, health facilities were being assessed, medical supplies were mobilized, and highly trained and self-sufficient Emergency Medical Teams from across the Region were ready to deploy.
PAHO Executive Committee concludes 178th session with key decisions to strengthen health across the Americas
Washington, D.C., 18 June 2026 (PAHO) – The 178th Session of the Executive Committee of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) concluded today after four days of discussions on the Region's most pressing public health priorities, with Member States approving a series of strategies, plans of action and resolutions that will help strengthen health systems, improve preparedness for health emergencies, and expand access to essential health services across the Americas.
Quake-hit Venezuela faces looming health threats as survivors crowd shelters
Poor shelter conditions, lack of clean water and sanitation could leave many thousands vulnerable, PAHO says.
Countries of the Americas advance a health sector digital highway to connect care across borders
PAHO Directing Council briefing highlights regional progress toward a trusted digital health ecosystem where secure information can accompany people across services and borders.
Northern Arapaho Business Council crafts policy governing 'outside organizations' after sermon sparks outrage
Protests, Sunday services continue after Foundations for Nations pastor goes viral with call for tribal members on Wind River Reservation to reject their traditional spiritual ways.
Health Ministers of the Americas to meet in Washington to address the Region’s leading public health challenges
The highest health authorities in the Americas will discuss new strategies on health emergencies, antimicrobial resistance, arboviral diseases, and food safety.Washington, D.C., 21 September 2026 (PAHO) – Ministers of Health and other high-level authorities from across the Americas will gather from 28 September to 2 October 2026 at the headquarters of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in Washington, D.C., for the 63rd PAHO Directing Council and other governance meetings.
Strengthening bacterial meningitis surveillance in Central America
San José, Costa Rica, 20 August 2026 – Approximately 25 representatives and experts from seven countries participated in a subregional workshop organized by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to strengthen epidemiological and laboratory surveillance of bacterial meningitis. Meningitis caused an estimated 5,000 deaths in the Americas in 2021, one-third among children under 5, and approximately one in four survivors experience permanent sequelae.
EVA HENRY: Corruption resurfaces in Adams, Arapahoe County politics linked to One Main Street
Corporate dark money groups are funneling millions into eleven different races statewide.
WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region and Pan American Health Organization sign agreement to strengthen hospital resilience
Cairo, Egypt, 25 February 2026 — WHO’s Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) have signed a Memorandum of Arrangement to strengthen collaboration on making...
Chile declares health alert for hantavirus
The Chile Ministry of Health issued a Health Alert for hantavirus and other diseases, such as some arboviruses and avian influenza. This is the first time this measure has been taken and it will be in effect until July 31, 2027 and it extends from the Atacama region to the Magallanes region. “Hantavirus causes a disease that is endemic to Chile, transmitted by the long-tailed pygmy rice rat that lives in rural and semi-rural areas throughout almost the entire country. As a ministry, we are constantly monitoring its behavior and are very concerned and actively working because this year the virus's lethality has increased, and for this reason, we decided to declare this alert. As of last week, there were 46 confirmed cases and 18 deaths, representing a 39% lethality rate,” reported the Undersecretary of Public Health, Dr. Alejandra Pizarro. Cases have occurred in the regions of Valparaíso, Metropolitan, O'Higgins, Maule, Ñuble, Biobío, La Araucanía, Los Ríos, Los Lagos, and Aysén. By comparison, in 2025, there were 44 infections and eight deaths (18% case fatality rate). The health alert, which is preventative and prepared, will allow for the granting of extraordinary powers in the event of serious health emergencies to strengthen surveillance, ensure timely resource management, hire specialized personnel, implement health control measures, and expedite the acquisition of supplies through direct procurement. The alert does not imply that there is an ongoing epidemic or that the healthcare system is overwhelmed. Subscribe to Outbreak News TV on YouTube “Hantavirus is not exclusively a summer virus, as the long-tailed pygmy rice rat is present year-round. Therefore, we urge everyone to take extreme precautions: avoid touching rodents, ventilate homes before entering if they have been closed, clean unused spaces with water and bleach, and keep garbage covered and food stored away. Furthermore, it is crucial to be aware of the symptoms: fever, intense muscle pain, and difficulty breathing. If someone experiences these symptoms and has been in rural or semi-rural areas where the long-tailed pygmy rice rat may have been present, they should immediately go to a health center and inform the medical staff so that a hantavirus diagnosis can be considered promptly,” the official added. Since December 2025, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has maintained an epidemiological alert due to the rise in hantavirus cases throughout the Southern Cone, and that the Ministry of Health had an epidemiological alert in place since November of last year. Chile eliminates leprosy As mentioned above, the Health Alert decree also covers diseases transmitted by the Aedes aegypti, Aedes vexans, and Anopheles pseudopunctipennis mosquitoes, such as dengue and Zika, which, according to the alert, “have a high epidemic potential, which could generate high demand and overload for health facilities.” For these diseases, the alert is in effect from Arica to Los Ríos. The authority stressed that it is essential to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in stagnant water and to monitor any suspected cases of people arriving from abroad infected with any of these diseases, in order to prevent any of these vectors from biting a sick person and starting to spread the disease. In the case of avian influenza, the alert was extended to the entire country, because unlike other years, the disease has been concentrated in wild and farm birds, not in poultry farms, increasing the risk of exposure for people. Outbreak News Today is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Subscribe
Violence against health workers remains a challenge for health systems in the Americas, PAHO warns
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Man arrested in connection to tractor theft and business burglary
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UNGA81: Robust laboratory systems key to preventing, detecting and responding to health threats
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CEPI and PAHO expand partnership to strengthen regulatory systems and vaccine safety across the Americas
The agreements build on a broader five-year Memorandum of Understanding, signed in 2024.
Hoopaholic’s Gazette: The Waiting Game
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The minister of health of the Dominican Republic assumed the presidency of the 79th World Health Assembly
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PAHO and Google join forces to expand access to trusted health information across the Americas
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PAHO/WHO supports Colombia as health response enters next phase following earthquake
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Venezuelan physician receives PAHO award for advancing Indigenous and intercultural health
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PAHO Director’s Annual Report highlights health gains across the Americas despite growing challenges
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Haiti: Signs of hope despite gang violence and political uncertainty
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PAHO Executive Committee opens 178th session with focus on key health priorities and financing challenges in the Americas
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PAHO Director urges global action to combat rising dengue and other arboviral threats at One Health Forum in Lyon
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World Health Day 2026: PAHO/WHO calls for renewed commitment to science to drive better health for all
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World Health Assembly opens with focus on equity, resilience, and global health cooperation; Region of the Americas plays active role
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One month after Colombia earthquake, PAHO/WHO continues to support response and stabilization
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PAHO urges countries to expand the role of nursing to strengthen health systems in the Americas
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PAHO’s 2025 Country Reports highlight the Region’s progress in health
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PAHO ramps up support to Caribbean health systems one month after Hurricane Melissa
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Immigrant leaders shape Colorado’s political future
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Drug use disorders a growing public health concern in the Americas, PAHO study finds
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UNC Gillings helps grow a global ecosystem for social innovation in health - UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health
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