WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao launched the first day of the Tourism and Health Program (THP) In-Country Mission on Wednesday, August 12, bringing together public health authorities, economic officials and tourism stakeholders to strengthen the island’s ability to address health risks associated with tourism.
The program is an initiative of the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and focuses on strengthening health surveillance, prevention and the management of public health risks connected to the tourism sector.
Representatives of CARPHA participated in the sessions alongside officials from Curaçao’s Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature (GMN), the Ministry of Economic Development and Innovation (MEO), and partners from the tourism industry.
The mission is intended to strengthen cooperation between the health and tourism sectors, an important component in identifying and responding to potential health risks that could affect residents and visitors.
GMN Secretary-General Sharlon Melfor officially welcomed participants at the opening of the program.
He was followed by CARPHA Executive Director Dr. Lisa Indar, who delivered opening remarks before the working sessions began.
The Tourism and Health Program places particular emphasis on surveillance and prevention, with the objective of improving the way tourism-related health risks are identified and managed.
The August 12 session marked the beginning of the program’s in-country activities in Curaçao, with government agencies and tourism stakeholders participating in the initiative.