In response to a resurgence of diphtheria cases in Haiti, the Ministry of Public Health and Population (MSPP), with technical support from the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), has launched a series of training sessions designed to strengthen the capacity of healthcare professionals in four of the country’s departments : the West, the Northwest, the Northeast, and the Southeast.

A total of 44 doctors and nurses from 17 healthcare facilities are the focus of this initiative, which is coordinated by the Directorate of Epidemiology, Laboratories, and Research (DELR) in collaboration with the Directorate for the Organization of Health Services.

The training covers the early detection of cases, the application of national clinical management protocols, the administration of treatments, and the prevention of transmission. It also aims to improve the surveillance and reporting of other vaccine-preventable diseases, such as measles and pertussis (whooping cough).

During the first 38 weeks of 2026, 169 confirmed cases of diphtheria and 27 deaths linked to the disease were recorded in Haiti. Given the challenges in accessing healthcare, strengthening the capacity of hospitals and clinics is essential to ensure prompt patient care and reduce the risk of serious complications.

This initiative receives technical and logistical support from PAHO, funded by the European Union through its Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations department (ECHO).

IH/ iciHaiti