INTERNATIONAL World Environmental Health Day was, on Friday, observed in Region Two with an exhibition aimed at raising awareness about environmental health, sanitation and the importance of using science and public health information to protect communities.
The activity was held at the lawns of the Anna Regina Town Council under the theme, “Standing with Science to Protect Communities.” It was organised by the Central Board of Health, Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Region Two Environmental Health Department and Environmental Health Officers from Regions One to Ten.
Secretary of the Central Board of Health, Ministry of Health, Juanita Johnson, said the exhibition was designed to educate residents and create greater awareness about environmental health practices.
She explained that Environmental Health Officers from various regions showcased their work and highlighted areas where changes are needed within communities.
Johnson said education is critical to achieving meaningful change, pointing to areas such as recycling, composting, sanitation and proper management of water and excretory systems.
Also attending the exhibition was Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Jettendra Mohanlall, who welcomed the initiative and said it provided an opportunity for the various regions to share information and experiences.
Dr Mohanlall said the different regions focused on issues including sanitary waste management and proper management of different water systems.
He noted that public health experts use data to guide measures aimed at creating safer environments and said the exhibition would help promote good health through the sharing of information and ideas.
Regional Environmental Health Officer from Region Nine, Wanita Juanita Jerricks Williams, said she was pleased to be part of the initiative and commended Region Two for showcasing ways in which communities can conserve and protect the environment.
She said Region Nine was also able to showcase some of the work being undertaken in the region, including proper handwashing practices and how a septic tank should be constructed.
Williams urged residents to practise good hygiene and pay greater attention to sanitation practices in their homes and communities.
The exhibition also featured displays from the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Department and Environmental Health Officers from several regions.
Residents who visited the exhibition had the opportunity to view the displays, interact with Environmental Health Officers and ask questions about proper sanitation, hygiene, waste management and environmental health practices.
The initiative highlighted the importance of collaboration, education and science-based approaches in creating healthier and safer communities.