A technical consultative mission from WHO took place from 1 to 3 December 2025. It was organized by the WHO Country Office in Turkmenistan and aimed at improving Turkmenistan’s capacity to prepare for and respond to pandemics.

The mission included Akande Oluwatosin Wuraola, technical specialist on monitoring and evaluation from WHO Headquarters and Dr. Claire Louise Blackmore, WHO/Europe expert on pandemic preparedness. The purpose was to support Turkmenistan in finalizing its National Pandemic Preparedness Plan (NPPP). WHO experts conducted PanPRET table-top simulation exercises designed to test the components of the plan including multisectoral coordination, management of public health and social measures, risk communication and community engagement of the draft NPPP under realistic scenarios. These exercises helped identify strengths and gaps in the country’s preparedness framework, ensuring that the plan is practical, comprehensive, and aligned with global standards.

Following the simulations, WHO specialists worked closely with national authorities and an intersectoral working group to refine and finalize the NPPP. The updated plan incorporates lessons learned from the exercises and expert recommendations, providing Turkmenistan with a robust roadmap for preventing, responding to, and recovering from pandemics caused by respiratory pathogens.

This initiative is part of the implementation of the Partnership Contribution to the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Mechanism in Turkmenistan, underscoring WHO’s commitment to strengthening health security worldwide. The mission highlights the importance of proactive planning and collaboration to safeguard public health and mitigate the impact of future pandemics.