Havana, February 7, 2025 (PAHO) – From February 3 to 7, 2025, Havana hosted the Workshop for the Implementation of the Framework of a national program for preventing and controlling diseases caused by respiratory viruses with epidemic and pandemic potential led by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and Cuban health authorities. This event marked a milestone in consolidating the country’s commitment to strengthening its capacities for surveillance and control of respiratory diseases through the joint implementation of the WHO Mosaic Framework for Respiratory Virus Surveillance and PAHO’s Framework of a national program for preventing and controlling diseases caused by respiratory viruses with epidemic and pandemic potential
The five-day workshop was divided into two main phases. During the first two days, participants used the Mosaic Framework to discuss three fundamental components of respiratory virus surveillance: early detection of pandemic threats, routine respiratory virus surveillance, and the use of surveillance data for operational research. The following sessions focused on prevention and control, pandemic preparedness and response, and risk communication and community participation. The final day was dedicated to presenting key findings and defining a roadmap to consolidate progress in the country.
Key Findings and Recommendations
Cuba has a robust surveillance system that has demonstrated its capacity for early detection of respiratory diseases and a coordinated outbreak response. The workshop highlighted the high level of integration within the health sector, with rapid response teams operating at all levels, from the community to the national level. While advanced laboratory capacities and universal healthcare access have been fundamental pillars in the country’s strategy for respiratory disease control, recommendations were made to enhance sentinel surveillance.
One of the most significant achievements of the workshop was the synergy between human, animal, and agricultural health teams, along with the participation of the academic sector. Cuba has made considerable progress in developing multisectoral work plans, facilitating decision-making under the One Health approach. The development of an online platform was proposed to strengthen real-time data management and analysis for both the health and animal sectors, enabling a more efficient response to public health events.
In the area of risk communication, the country’s strong health information and education system was recognized. Cuba’s communication strategies have been essential in ensuring community participation in disease prevention and control. During the workshop, the importance of further strengthening these mechanisms and enhancing emergency communication training was emphasized.
At the event’s closing, Cuban authorities reaffirmed their commitment to prioritizing respiratory disease surveillance and control, working closely with PAHO/WHO to consolidate achievements, implement the defined roadmap, and ensure an effective response to future epidemiological threats.
