“Stand With Science” – Health Ministry, CARPHA Send Clear Message On World Health Day
The Ministry of Health says it is committed to “science-driven” decision-making to guide national health programmes and policies.
In its message on World Health Day and the 78th anniversary of the World Health Organization, the Ministry said science remains the foundation of the public health system and is critical to protecting the well-being of people, animals, plants, and the environment.
The Ministry highlighted its continued reliance on scientific research to guide national health programmes and policies, noting partnerships with local, regional, and international stakeholders, including the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).
It noted that its upcoming ‘Step Into Wellness’ campaign will utilise scientifically proven recommendations to support individual health, adding that its doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals rely on their scientific backgrounds and training.
World Health Day 2026 on April 7th is being observed under the theme “Together For Health. Stand With Science.”
Meanwhile, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has called for stronger, integrated disease surveillance and expanded One Health action across the region as it marked World Health Day on Tuesday.
CARPHA stressed that science-driven collaboration remains critical to protecting public health, particularly as emerging and re-emerging health threats continue to affect Caribbean populations.
It noted that foodborne diseases remain among the most frequently reported illnesses in the Caribbean, with regional studies estimating that one in 49 people contract a foodborne illness annually.
The Agency warned that the region’s tourism-dependent economies are especially vulnerable to outbreaks, which can result in reputational damage, revenue losses, and trade restrictions.
CARPHA said sustained collaboration and evidence-based decision-making will be essential to building a resilient, responsive, and coordinated public health system for the Caribbean.
