March 14, 2025 (Pohnpei, FSM) – In November 2024, PIHOA led a Vector Surveillance and Outbreak Response Training in Kolonia, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). This multi-agency training brought together 14 participants from FSM’s National Environmental Health Office, Pohnpei State Department of Health and Social Services (Pohnpei DHSS), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Guam’s Department of Public Health and Social Services (Guam DPHSS).
With hands-on guidance from PIHOA’s Vector Management Team, along with support from Guam DPHSS, participants enhanced their knowledge of:
- Mosquito surveillance techniques and outbreak preparedness
- Key strategies for effective response to vector-borne disease outbreaks
- Table-top exercises simulating dengue outbreak scenarios
- Multi-sectoral collaboration for improved vector management
Ben Jackson Amor, Jr. of FSM’s National Environmental Health and Food Safety Program emphasized the importance of state-level engagement, stating, “State-level counterparts are often the ones who have the local knowledge, infrastructure, and direct contact with communities, making their engagement crucial.”
This initiative aligns with PIHOA’s Regional Vector Management Improvement Strategy (RVMIS), a long-term commitment to improving mosquito surveillance, control, and outbreak response across the Pacific. PIHOA will continue working closely with FSM’s vector management teams to develop a Vector-Borne Disease Outbreak Response Plan, ensuring stronger capacity and coordination to protect communities.
Stay tuned for more updates on our efforts to combat vector-borne diseases across the region!
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