Epidemiology centre meeting discusses work of rapid response teams

AMMAN — The National Epidemiology and Infectious Diseases Centre (NEIDC) recently discussed the status of rapid response teams (RRTs) in various national institutions and ways to develop of their work.

NEIDC President Raeda Qutob said that the meeting aims to provide a "clear" understanding of RRTs and their role in protecting society from health risks, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported, citing a statement from the centre that was issued on Sunday.

The meeting, which was attended by representatives of the agriculture, environment and water ministries, in addition to the Royal Medical Services, falls within NEIDC's action plan to develop national RRTs for health emergencies.

Participants went over the necessary steps to identify national RRT staff in various institutions, and ways to launch operations in a "timely and effective" manner based on scientific evidence.

Attendees also discussed the necessary steps to build a comprehensive database of RRTs at the national level, as well as primarily human resources, logistical capabilities and main criteria to develop emergency RRTs at the national level.

The centre, in cooperation with Ministry of Health and stakeholders, developed an action plan for RRTs to build and improve their capabilities and efficiency.

This effort primarily focuses on updating guidelines, strategies, policies and the teams' standard operating procedures, building their capabilities and aligning their work mechanisms with the latest scientific developments, the NEIDC said.

In addition, the centre called on all the concerned authorities to cooperate and coordinate their efforts to protect public health and ensure the efficiency of RRTs.