Belmopan. September 7, 2021. 5:30 p.m.
The Ministry of Health & Wellness today joins in the celebration of World Field Epidemiology Day.
Field Epidemiology refers to an application method that includes an on-site investigation for the timely intervention of a health problem.
In 2010, Belize piloted the first basic Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP). Since then, an additional six basic training groups have been established with a total of 93 graduates at the end of 2020. From these, a total of 11 students have graduated from the basic level and advanced to the intermediate level. Five persons have graduated with a master’s degree in Applied Epidemiology from Universidad del Valle de Guatemala, one will complete a master’s degree this year and three have started the master’s program.
In January 2020, the Belize FETP tutors were trained in the Frontline Curriculum that has replaced the basic FETP. Under this new structure, the nine students successfully graduated from the first group.
The work of field epidemiologists has contributed to quick response and case management investigation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Field epidemiologists respond to the increase of cases with contact tracing management to decrease hospitalization and deaths.
Hon. Michel Chebat, Minister of Health & Wellness, along with the community, extends appreciation to all health care frontline workers and recognizes the important role they play in protecting the health of the people of Belize.
Happy World Field Epidemiology Day!
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