Strengthening the Surveillance and Response to Public Health Events With a One Health Approach: A Perspective From 12 Countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.

UNLABELLED: The Surveillance Network for Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses (SARInet) has played a crucial role in improving the capacity of Latin American countries to monitor and respond to events with potential public health impact. This perspective compiles and analyzes case studies from several countries in the Americas to illustrate the challenges faced prior to the creation of SARInet, the interventions implemented, and the impacts achieved.

METHODOLOGY: This study is based on a series of cases from 12 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. The data have been compiled from reports, ad-hoc assessments and technical group analyses conducted before and after the implementation of SARInet in 2014.

RESULTS: Over the past decade, SARInet has been instrumental in strengthening the capacity for early detection and response to public health events in several Latin American countries. Technical cooperation in epidemiological and laboratory surveillance, personnel training, intersectoral coordination and the adoption of advanced technologies have improved the countries' capacity for timely detection and management of epidemic and pandemic outbreaks.

CONCLUSIONS: The experience of the countries shows that regional collaboration and the strengthening of local capacities are essential to face future public health challenges.