The occurrence of viral haemorrhagic fevers has been on the increase in the Region due to a number of ecological, environmental and climatic factors. The recurrent threats of viral haemorrhagic fevers pose a major public health concern.
In view of this growing problem a subregional meeting was held in Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran, from 27 to 30 November 2011 to address a number of key issues, including surveillance for early detection of an outbreak, laboratory capacity building and partnerships with veterinary and entomological services.
In compliance with Regional Committee resolution EM/RC54/R.05, the subregional meeting concluded with strategic guidance for prevention and control of viral haemorrhagic fevers in the Region. The guidance will also assist countries at risk to strengthen their national epidemic preparedness and response plan for control of viral haemorrhagic fevers. Public health officials from Afghanistan, Egypt, Islamic Republic of Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan and Yemen participated in this meeting.
