NASSAU, The Bahamas -- Dr. Merceline Dahl-Regis, COVID-19 Task Force Coordinator and Special Adviser to the Prime Minister said to enhance its surveillance activities for contact tracing, the Ministry of Health has entered into a partnership with the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) and the University of The Bahamas to establish a contact tracing training course.

“Approximately 100 qualified individuals will be identified from New Providence and the Family islands to participate in this certified course to enhance contact tracing knowledge, skills and practices,” Dr. Dahl-Regis said during the COVID-19 Update Press Conference held at the Ministry of Health, Thursday, July 2, 2020.

She added that the team will support the Ministry’s workforce as it prepares for the possibility of an increase in cases anticipated with the re-opening of the economy.

Dr. Dahl-Regis explained that the program is adapted from the Johns Hopkins University curriculum and includes seven training modules that will be offered virtually to participants.

“The Surveillance Unit is modifying the program to make it relevant to The Bahamas. It is scheduled to begin within the next two weeks.”

She noted that the Ministry of Health is also working with the Ministry of National Security on the establishment of a national COVID-19 enforcement unit.

“The unit is a collaboration between various government agencies. In addition to National Security and Health, include the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, the Office of the Attorney General, Data Protection and others.

“This unit will be responsible for enforcing regulations put in place to support public health precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Dr. Dahl-Regis added that the unit will also be responsible for monitoring individuals who are required to self-quarantine.

She made it clear that privacy and confidentiality will be protected.