PAHO and UNICEF to work jointly in disasters, immunization campaigns, prevention of HIV, and monitoring nutrition

Jul 27 2004

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and UNICEF have signed an agreement that intensifies the ties between the two institutions to work jointly in disasters, immunization campaigns, prevention of HIV, and monitoring nutrition.

The new stage of mutual collaboration is based on three basic principles of both organizations: achieving equity in health, improving the quality of life of children, and protecting children's rights.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Mirta Roses, director of PAHO, and by Nils Kastberg, regional director of UNICEF for the Americas and the Caribbean.

The new collaboration will focus on the following activities:

• Training of PAHO and UNICEF staff in technical areas related to preparation and response in emergencies (physical and mental health, nutrition, water supply and sanitation, community preparedness, communication, and others.)
• Joint preparation of rapid response plans to disasters at regional level.
• Participation in development and utilization of SUMA, the system developed by PAHO for the effective management of supplies and donations in cases of disasters.
• Collaborative efforts in specific areas of health such as national vaccination days, nutrition and prevention of HIV/AIDS.

UNICEF's work is based on five priorities: immunization, child protection, HIV/AIDS, health in early childhood, and equity in access to education for girls. Within this framework, the objectives are to protect children's rights, including their basic needs and expanding their opportunities to reach their full potential.

PAHO, since its founding in 1902, has worked to improve the health and quality of life of the people of the Americas, and to promote children's health. It also serves as the Regional Office for the Americas of the World Health Organization.