O-04 Fiction to Function: CARPHA’s novel caribbean tailored Republic of Tingua emergency preparedness and outbreak response simulation exercise

Methods: Under CARPHA’s Pandemic Fund Project, a Caribbean-tailored, flexible, templated multi-hazard E&R simulation exercise was created in 2025 using adult-learning principles, international and regional preparedness frameworks, and regionally grounded scenario design. World-building included detailed fictional country profiles, realistic datasets, and injects delivered through various virtual and physical formats, including multidisciplinary teambased tasks aligned to learning objectives. Anonymous preand post-surveys assessed changes in participant knowledge and confidence.

Results: Between July and December 2025, more than 120 participants from 21 CMS from across surveillance, environmental health, emergency preparedness and One Health disciplines, engaged in Tingua E&R simulations across three CARPHA-hosted workshops. These simulations were supported by 22 CARPHA staff with expertise in laboratory, surveillance, emergency preparedness, workforce development, vector-borne and foodborne illnesses, outbreak response and communication. . These workshops covered realistic scenarios of zoonotic disease outbreaks, cross-border spread, natural disasters and compound emergencies. Participants consistently reported strengthened skills in communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and application of surveillance tools under pressure. Workshops produced tangible outputs, including draft ministerial briefings, rapid response plans and updated One Health National Action Plans, demonstrating transfer of skills into realistic products. The inaugural Tingua 1.0 exercise received an average rating of 4.5/5. Participants highlighted the value of a multisectoral approach, role clarity, and rapid decision-making in realistic emergency environments. Lessons learned included the need for clearer participant briefings, enhanced facilitator preparation, multilingual accessibility, and more staff involvement.

Conclusion: The Tingua simulation demonstrates that an immersive, culturally resonant fictional environment can effectively enhance preparedness skills, promote collaboration, and bridge theory and practice among diverse public health staff for E&R.