The Ministry of Health welcomed representatives from the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) to Bermuda this week as part of a mission aimed at enhancing visitor-based surveillance and strengthening food safety.  

The Hon Kim Wilson, JP, MP, Minister of Health, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, "Food safety is a fundamental component of public health. By investing in the skills of our workforce, particularly in sectors that directly engage with the public, we are helping to reduce risk, increase accountability, and enhance both local and visitor confidence in Bermuda’s food and hospitality services."

As part of its visit, CARPHA delivered advanced food safety training, promoted its Tourism and Health Programme (THP), and met with the Hon Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, as well as technical officers to develop plans for enhanced cruise ship surveillance and expanded use of the Tourism and Health Information System (THiS).

A key highlight of this week’s activities has been the delivery of ServSafe Food Handlers Training, facilitated by CARPHA with support from Environmental Health. This internationally recognized certification equips food industry professionals with essential knowledge to prevent foodborne illnesses and maintain the highest standards of hygiene and food safety.  

In addition to these capacity-building efforts, the Ministry celebrated a significant milestone: the graduation of Bermuda’s cohort of the Caribbean Regional Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (CR-FELTP) which was facilitated by CARPHA through the Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit. This marks the culmination of months of dedicated study, equipping health professionals with critical skills in surveillance, outbreak investigation, data analysis, and evidence-based response.  

The team of graduates included Frontline Graduates Christina Belboda, Diana King-Dornelly, Ann-Marie Moore, Keenan VanPutten, and Martin Walker, along with Frontline and Level 2 Graduates Allison Maycock and Sherall Seymour-Lowe.

Minister Wilson extended her heartfelt congratulations to all graduates and expressed deep gratitude to CARPHA for its continued leadership in strengthening regional health systems.  "We are incredibly grateful to CARPHA for bringing this training to Bermuda, and to Environmental Health for its leadership in ensuring its success. Every food handler who completes this training is a vital link in our chain of protection.