On May 29-31, a training course on sanitary inspection of ships and issuance of ship sanitary certificates (SSC) was held at the Turkmenbashy international seaport, as well as on ships.

The training was organized by the WHO Country Office in Turkmenistan together with WHO/Europe to improve national public health capacity.

The training was attended by: the national coordinator for the International Health Regulations (IHR), national ship inspectors and public health representatives from the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan, the “Turkmendenizderyayollary” Agency, the State Veterinary Service, the State Quarantine Service, the Turkmenbashy International Seaport and Sanitary -quarantine point.

During the training, participants had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with WHO guidance on ship health inspection and issuance of SSC in accordance with the IHR, practical aspects of ship inspection and issuance of ship health certificates. A practical example of maritime incidents that pose a threat to public health was also reviewed, according to a WHO press release.

This event was held as part of the WHO project to strengthen national capacity for “One Health” for the countries of Central Asia.