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Preparedness vital in addressing health crises

Bimp meeting: Dr Hjh Kalsom (2nd R), acting director general at the Ministry of Health and other delegates at the first Sub-Regional (Bimp) Exercise Management Training Workshop. Picture: Qistina Rangga

Yazmyn Hashim
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

WHEN dealing with the issue of preparedness in response to public health emergencies, it is crucial to avoid sinking into the trap of complacency.

Dr Pengiran Hishamuddin Pengiran DP Hj Badaruddin, acting senior medical officer of the Disease Control Division, believes that no nation can ever be fully prepared for the onset of an emerging infectious disease (EID).

He emphasises the necessity in taking regular steps to improve existing plans and preparations.

Severe outbreaks, such as the SARS near-pandemic in 2002, have shown that increasingly complex infectious diseases can quickly spread in a highly globalised world. These EIDs clearly do not discriminate against race or religion.

"They do, however, discriminate against those who are not well-prepared," highlighted Damien Donovan, a representative from the Australian High Commission on behalf of AusAID (Agency for International Development).

Although having action plans in place to ensure effective execution of appropriate and timely interventions is essential, this alone is not adequate. Aside from designing and developing suitable strategies, they need to be tested and assessed to identify gaps and other key areas for improvement. One way of testing the effectiveness of a developed plan is through conducting simulation exercises.

Dr Pengiran Hishamuddin is optimistic about Brunei's progress in preparing for public health emergencies. "Thankfully, we have the cooperation and support required, as well as suitable manpower and resources if such concerns arise."

He reminds that there is always room for improvement, and believes that the workshop will prove beneficial in further honing and strengthening the nation's overall capacity and capability in dealing with such emergencies. One key area that is hoped to be improved is public involvement and awareness.

The acting senior medical officer believes that informing and educating the public about emerging infectious diseases is essential to ensure smooth and structured management of the planned exercises. Past events have also shown that the effects of severe EID outbreaks extend beyond the health sector.

Due to this, involvement of the non-health sectors is important and participants of the first sub-regional (Bimp) Exercise Management Training Workshop include representatives from the military, agriculture department and Fire and Rescue Services.

Prior to the workshop, a Regional Experience Sharing Workshop on Exercise Management in Asean+3 countries was held in Bangkok, Thailand last November.

The Brunei Times

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