The WHO Regional Office for the Americas recently announced a new cooperation agreement with the European Union in Cuba. Through the agreement, the EU will contribute 1 500 000 euros. The initiative is aimed at strengthening the response capabilities of the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) to fight COVID-19.
The EU has intensified its collaboration in Cuba since the beginning of the pandemic. In addition, the EU has been supporting food security and civil society in Cuba.
The project aims to increase national capacity to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic by increasing the availability of critical medical devices and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for health workers as well as improving national capacity to perform diagnostics, epidemiological surveillance and improve treatment protocols.
The initiative will strengthen the network of clinical diagnostic laboratories in health institutions throughout the country. It will also facilitate the exchange of knowledge and experience between Cuban and European specialists on surveillance protocols, clinical management and treatment of COVID-19.
WHO thanks all donors and partners who have contributed to fund the Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan to combat COVID-19. A special appreciation goes to Member States and other contributors who provided flexible funds, making it possible for WHO to deliver a coherent, strategic and broad response.
Read more about the European Union’s cooperation with Cuba in the fight against COVID-19