ARUSHA: TANZANIA has made significant progress in detecting, preventing and controlling epidemic diseases and other public health emergencies.
This was revealed yesterday in Arusha by the Assistant Director in the Ministry of Health, Dr Vida Makundi during a four-day workshop assessing the implementation of the International Health Regulations (IHR).
Dr Makundi said the evaluation indicates that the country has made substantial strides in preparedness by strengthening disease prevention systems and improving early detection mechanisms.
She explained that enhanced digital systems now enable the rapid collection of daily health data from all levels, from communities to healthcare facilities, allowing authorities to respond swiftly to disease outbreaks and other health emergencies.
“Tanzania is among the member states of the World Health Organisation implementing these international regulations. They require us to be prepared to detect, prevent and control epidemic diseases and other health emergencies. This meeting is therefore assessing our level of readiness in these areas,” she said.
Dr Makundi added that during the Marburg virus disease outbreak, the country managed to detect and contain the disease early, preventing its spread.
“Currently, the country is well prepared to receive early disease alerts and take timely action. Our surveillance, response and community awareness teams are highly prepared,” she noted.
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She also urged the public to continue cooperating by reporting suspected disease outbreaks or unusual incidents through the toll-free number 199, operated by the Ministry of Health.
On her part, the WHO Emergency Preparedness and Response Officer, Dr Faraja Msemwa commended the government through the ministries of health in both Union and Zanzibar for implementing the International Health Regulations.
“WHO is working closely with the government to ensure effective implementation of these regulations, with the aim of strengthening the country’s preparedness to respond to various emergencies, including disease outbreaks,” she said.
Dr Msemwa added that through the national IHR task force, which brings together stakeholders from government ministries, public institutions and development partners, regular assessments are conducted to evaluate implementation and address existing gaps.