Successful simulation exercises in Turkmenistan strengthen emergency preparedness

In preparation for the 5th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in September 2017, a technical visit including experts from WHO headquarters and WHO/Europe took place in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, on 27–31 March 2017. The objective of the technical visit was to plan, conduct and assess 2 simulation exercises.

The first exercise simulated the early detection of an infectious disease, including transportation of the patient to the hospital, sampling and laboratory confirmation. The second involved the activation of coordination and communication mechanisms among relevant parties, such as the Executive Committee of the Games, the State Sanitary and Epidemiological Service of the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan, and other agencies involved in detection and response to infectious diseases.

The exercises were conducted in accordance with the recommendations of a joint external evaluation of IHR implementation that took place in June 2016, and were a continuation of a tabletop simulation exercise undertaken in December 2016.

During the exercises, participants tested the Emergency Risk Communication (ERC) plan. Experts from WHO/Europe also conducted a training for the ERC working group focused on preventing the spread of rumours and ensuring rapid, effective communication during emergencies.

The results of the successful simulations and tests will help the Ministry to build the capacity of public health services during and after the Games.