Sana'a: The Ministry of Health and Environment, through its General Directorate for Disease Control and Epidemiological Surveillance and the Yemen Field Epidemiology Training Program, organized an event to commemorate World Field Epidemiology Day. Acting Minister of Health and Environment, Dr. Nasher Al-Qaud, expressed hope that the research outcomes and recommendations from graduates would be effectively utilized in field studies to enhance practical applications.
According to Yemen News Agency, Dr. Al-Qaud emphasized the need to address gaps in field research to better equip society in combating epidemics. He identified aggression as a significant factor contributing to the spread of epidemics and diseases, urging participants in the Field Epidemiology Program to take responsibility for developing effective disease surveillance and epidemic control plans.
The event saw the presence of Deputy Ministers Dr. Najib Al-Qubati and Dr. Ali Jahaf. Deputy Minister Dr. Mohammed Al-Mansour described the trainees and graduates of the Field Epidemiology Program as the frontline defenders in public health enhancement and outbreak containment. He called for increased focus on epidemiology as a fundamental science in public health and stressed the role of epidemiologists in raising community awareness about disease transmission and prevention.
Director of the Yemen Field Epidemiology Training Program, Dr. Abdulhakim Al-Kuhlani, highlighted the importance of dedicating a day to field epidemiology amidst global health challenges. He noted that September 7 was selected as World Field Epidemiology Day, marking the anniversary of epidemiologist John Snow's discovery of the cholera outbreak cause in London.
Dr. Al-Kuhlani asserted that this day emphasizes the importance of epidemiology, the development of specialized professionals, and the strengthening of ties with program graduates. He mentioned that in the 14 years since the program's inception, 625 graduates have completed the training, underscoring the value of discussing graduates' challenges and sharing their experiences post-training.