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Global Health Security

Strengthening Global Health Security through IPC, Surveillance, Risk Communication, and Coordination

The Global Health Security (GHS) Objective is to build strong and resilient public health systems for surveillance and response to infectious diseases. Uganda is considered a ‘hotspot’ for emerging and re-emerging infectious disease outbreaks. It has experienced several epidemics including Ebola, Marburg, Plague, Rift Valley Fever, Yellow Fever, and Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever.

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Epidemics overwhelm health systems, devastate economies, erode household incomes, and cause global health insecurity. As per the World Health Organization, one or more new infectious diseases have emerged each year since the 1970s.

Our practical experience at the frontline of responding to the global COVID-19 pandemic, Ebola Virus Disease, and other outbreaks in central Uganda guided the development of our new global health security strategy.

We are addressing crucial components including, infection prevention and control (IPC), surveillance, risk communication, and coordination. Over the years, we have built the capacity for fostering a resilient and coordinated response to health threats, ensuring the safety and well-being of communities.

How we are making an Impact.

1. Infection Prevention and Control (IPC):

At the heart of our program lies the commitment to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. We prioritize the implementation of rigorous IPC strategies across healthcare settings, public spaces, and communities. By equipping healthcare professionals, individuals, and institutions with evidence-based practices, guidelines, and training, we aim to curb the transmission of diseases and protect vulnerable populations.

2. Surveillance

Effective surveillance is pivotal in detecting and responding to health threats in a timely manner. Our program employs state-of-the-art surveillance systems that enable the real-time monitoring of disease trends, outbreaks, and emerging risks. By analyzing data and patterns, we empower decision-makers with actionable insights that guide targeted interventions and resource allocation.

3. Risk Communication

Transparent and accurate communication is essential to ensure informed decision-making during health crises. Our program focuses on promoting effective risk communication strategies that bridge the gap between authorities, healthcare professionals, and the public. By disseminating reliable information, countering misinformation, and fostering community engagement, we enhance public understanding and compliance.

4. Coordination:

In the face of global health challenges, seamless coordination is paramount. Our program facilitates collaboration among international organizations, governments, healthcare institutions, and responders. Through coordinated planning, resource sharing, and information exchange, we work to streamline responses and minimize the impact of health threats.

Health facilities supported with infection prevention and control equipment and supplies (in the past year)

Health workers given infection prevention and control skills (in the past year).

Community health workers supported to conduct disease surveillance (in the past year)

Received COVID-19 testing at Mildmay (in the past year)

Received COVID-19 Vaccine (in the past year)

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