By HER staff reporter
The World Health Organization’s Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office is marking World Field Epidemiology Day by underscoring the role of field epidemiologists as the first line of defence against disease outbreaks and other public health emergencies.
Observed annually on 7 September, the day is being used to draw attention to the work of disease detectives who investigate outbreaks, strengthen surveillance systems and convert raw data into timely public health action.
Building a frontline workforce
Through Field Epidemiology Training Programmes (FETPs), countries in the region are developing a cadre of professionals trained to detect health threats early, respond rapidly and reinforce national and regional health security.
WHO says it is supporting Eastern Mediterranean countries to expand and strengthen these programmes through national mentorship, regional knowledge exchange and a mix of frontline and advanced training. The support includes training in the use of artificial intelligence and other innovative tools to improve outbreak detection and response.
The effort aligns with the WHO Regional Director’s flagship initiative to build a resilient, fit-for-purpose and sustainable health workforce across the Eastern Mediterranean Region.
Progress in Syria and Egypt
Recent developments in the Syrian Arab Republic and Egypt illustrate how sustained investment in field epidemiology can translate into stronger national capacity.
In Syria, WHO supported the establishment of the country’s FETP, helping to strengthen national systems for surveillance, applied epidemiology and outbreak investigation and response. The programme is also developing national trainers and mentors to ensure the capacity built is sustainable beyond the initial phase.
In Egypt, the country’s FETP has been designated as a WHO collaborating centre, a regional milestone that creates a platform for sharing expertise, strengthening field epidemiology capacity and fostering collaboration among countries across the Eastern Mediterranean.
Turning data into action
WHO says these achievements demonstrate how investment in field epidemiology contributes to stronger national capacities, greater regional collaboration and a skilled, resilient public health workforce able to detect threats early and act before they escalate into larger emergencies.
“On World Field Epidemiology Day, WHO celebrates field epidemiologists – across the Region and worldwide – who turn data into action, detect threats early and protect communities when every hour counts,” the regional office said in a statement issued from Cairo.
