Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. September 7, 2026: On September 7, 2026, CARPHA joins the global field epidemiology community in celebrating World Field Epidemiology Day under the theme, “Protecting Communities from Behind the Scenes: The Power of Field Epidemiology.” Founded by Training Programmes in Epidemiology and Public Health Interventions Network (TEPHINET), World Field Epidemiology Day is a global movement that highlights the invaluable work of field epidemiologists in strengthening public health systems to detect and respond to emergencies, protect population health and advance regional and global health security.
In observance of World Field Epidemiology Day, Dr. Lisa Indar, Executive Director, Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), shared “Field Epidemiologists are at the forefront of public health response. Whether managing outbreaks of emerging infectious diseases, responding to natural disasters, supporting vaccination campaigns, or addressing environmental and other health risks, they provide the data and expertise needed for informed public health action”.
Through CARPHA’s Caribbean Regional Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme (CR-FELTP) health sector personnel across member states are trained in applied epidemiology, disease surveillance, emergency response and public health research. This year, the updated FETP Frontline 3.0 curriculum introduced a One Health approach, incorporating human, animal and environmental health perspectives into field epidemiology. Integration of this approach strengthens multisectoral collaboration and promotes coordinated action, effectively equipping graduates to address complex public health issues.
“Workforce training and capacity building is an integral element of health security,” said Dr. Horace Cox, Director, Surveillance, Disease Prevention and Control, CARPHA. “Today, we celebrate the achievements of field epidemiologists across the Caribbean and around the world who strengthen surveillance systems, support outbreak preparedness and response, and work alongside vulnerable communities. Their commitment, scientific expertise, and dedication remain essential to building resilient health systems and ensuring a safer future for all.”
The CR-FELTP is an affiliated member of TEPHINET. Through the support of international technical development partners and donors, such as, the US Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, the World Bank, the European Union, the Pandemic Fund and others, the CR-FELTP has been able to execute CARPHA’s mandate to provide public health workforce training to the Region.
“Over 530 fellows from 18 CARPHA Member States have graduated from the CR-FELTP since its inception in 2014. As silent, unsung heroes, these public health professionals stand on the forefront of response to national, regional and global health challenges,” said Dr. Laura-Lee Boodram, Head CR-FELTP, CARPHA. “It has been a privilege to work with these individuals and see how their skills and competencies have contributed to the health of the Region”.
The Agency proudly celebrates the graduates of the CR-FELTP and recognises field epidemiologists across the Caribbean and around the world. Today we honour our unsung heroes working tirelessly behind the scenes to safeguard communities and protect the health of the Region.
For more information on the CR-FELTP see more here. For more information on World Field Epidemiology Day visit TEPHINET’s website here.
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Photo Caption: Celebrating the many graduates and health sector professionals in the invaluable work as field epidemiologists in strengthening public health systems within the Region.
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