Executive Summary
The current Ebola Virus Disease outbreak has had serious consequences for the three main countries affected and for many other countries. Preparedness is critical since the risk of cross-border movement of infected individuals is significant.
The outbreak has highlighted the fragility of health systems in the Region and the importance of the International Health Regulations (2005) core capacities, which remain inadequate in the majority of countries worldwide.
At a meeting on Preparedness and Readiness in Brazzaville in October 2014, 14 high-priority countries were identified as requiring specific attention. Following that meeting, Preparedness Strengthening missions in Africa were conducted with the 14 African countries. Preparedness action plans were developed, targeted capacity building efforts were undertaken, and gaps in preparedness were identified.
The scope of the Taking Stock and Moving Forward meeting was to identify what further actions are necessary and map partner contributions to filling these gaps from both a technical and financial perspective. Over 150 partners attended this meeting, with active engagement throughout the three days.
The meeting identified both immediate and long term needs in the 14 high-priority countries. Immediate actions for EVD preparedness, and the continuing development of IHR capacities and health systems strengthening were discussed. Adherence to the principles of International Health Partnerships and the contribution of partners to both the response and to preparedness is essential.
Specific issues included the need for cross border coordination of activities between the three affected countries and their neighbours; better coordination among partners supporting national plans of action; stronger community engagement in the process of preparedness and response; as well as the lack of capacities for alert and detection of potential cases. At the same time, representatives of the countries covered in this meeting outlined some of the challenges they face including the competing interests of on-going disease outbreaks and humanitarian crises, financial gaps and insecurity.
The meeting included panel discussions with country representatives, WHO and partners, followed by extensive discussion in plenary. Working groups mapped the recommendations for immediate action with partner support. Next steps identified for the countries, WHO and partners were: - Implementation of capacities for alert, detection and response - Provision of PPE - Coordination and sharing of information on partner activities supporting national preparedness plans - Immediate support to countries through recruitment of EVD Preparedness Officers.
