In an ambitious initiative to enhance preparedness and response capabilities to health crises, the Gulf Center for Disease Prevention and Control, in cooperation with King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, organized a training program entitled “Preparedness and Response to Epidemics and Threats Affecting Public Health in the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries.” The program was held on May 8-9, 2024, with the aim of equipping public health professionals, emergency responders, and stakeholders with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively prepare for and respond to public health emergencies.
The program witnessed the participation of an elite group of speakers, including Dr. Majed Al-Shammari, Executive Director of the Preventive Medicine and Infection Control Program at the Ministry of National Guard, and Dr. Pasi Pantinen, CEO of the Gulf Center for Disease Prevention and Control. The sessions included a group of important topics, including steps and framework for dealing with outbreaks, methods and tools for early detection of health risks that impact public health, surveillance and reporting of health risks, and others.
This event reflects the commitment of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries to strengthening regional health security and building capabilities to respond to future health crises.