With the aim of strengthening preparedness and response to health emergencies, epidemics, and pandemics caused by infectious diseases, a follow-up meeting was held between members of the Contagio International Consortium—coordinated by researchers from the Industrial University of Santander (UIS)—and public health authorities from the department of Santander.
This working session provided an opportunity to review the project’s progress and consolidate strategies for implementing a platform for continuous cohort studies, designed to generate scientific evidence in a timely manner and support public health decision-making, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
The event was attended by representatives from the Departmental Health Secretariat: Diana Ariza, a professional in the Epidemiological Surveillance area; Wilson Torres, coordinator of the Hospital Quality Group; Rocío Orduz, coordinator of the Departmental Public Health Laboratory; Johana Reyes, a professional in the Accreditation area; and Jesús Efrey Chivata, coordinator of Public Health Management.
In turn, representing the Industrial University of Santander, Professor Víctor Mauricio Herrera, director of the EPICLIN group, and researchers María Consuelo Miranda, Anyela Lozano, and Gustavo Gómez participated.
The initiative promotes collaboration among academia, health institutions, and international organizations, strengthening capabilities in epidemiological surveillance, collaborative research, and response to future health threats.
Through this joint effort, the Contagio Consortium seeks to contribute to the development of more resilient health systems capable of anticipating, monitoring, and effectively responding to the challenges posed by emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases.
