PAHO will always be there to support Dominica, says Director Etienne

The Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), Dr Carissa F. Etienne, handed over many coronavirus related support items to Dominica. During the handing over ceremony on Friday morning, she said the organization will always be there to support Dominica in any emergency.

Dr Etienne noted that the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on the global economy, and Dominica has not been spared.

"Let me give you my commitment that PAHO will always be there to support you, but every citizen has a responsibility to ensure their health, that of their family, that of their community, that of their neighbours," said Dr Etienne during her address on Friday.

She said the items donated by PAHO would strengthen the health systems as the country continues to work towards the provision of universal health to all of its citizens, including the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The catastrophic human, the social and economic toll of COVID-19 has demonstrated that investing in health is key for economic security and that economic development and health developments are inextricably linked," Dr Etienne stated.

She noted that COVID-19 continues to affect lives and the livelihoods of many citizens worldwide, "In most instances, the situation is made even worse by the exacerbation of inequities that preceded COVID-19 both regionally and globally."

Dr Etienne stressed the importance of a collaborative effort to fight the pandemic.

"The situation that we face is challenging, but not hopeless. It concerns but is not insurmountable. If our approach in defeating the virus is based on collective vision and individual responsibility, based on science and evidence, based on empathy and compassion, based on partnership and leadership, we will come out of this pandemic fast." noted the Director.

Dr Etienne said PAHO is working in every single country and territory of the Americas to fight the pandemic, and solidarity is central to that fight.

"Countries are stronger in their response if they can learn from one another, pull resources and expertise, and draw on the latest data. And my sincere thanks to Dominica for its display of solidarity very early when it received COVID vaccines," Dr Etienne remarked.

PAHO has assured that Dominica will continue to receive timely support; however, each individual has to accept responsibility for the nation's health.

"Dominica may face unique challenges, but we are also uniquely positioned to overcome them. Let us appreciate that, please. We understand the power of working collectively, the value of understanding that all members of the country have access to healthcare to stay safe," she stated.