New Regulations Strengthen Epidemiological Surveillance in Brazil’s Transport Sector
On November 14, 2023, Brazil’s National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) implemented a significant regulatory update with the introduction of Resolution of the Collegiate Board (RDC) 932/2024. This new regulation aims to enhance and qualify the activities of epidemiological surveillance in ports, airports, and oil platforms, as well as within the aerial and maritime transport sectors. The primary objective behind these measures is to mitigate the risks associated with the entry and spread of diseases within the country, particularly through travelers and goods.
The new regulation comes with several pivotal changes. Administrators are now required to develop and implement contingency plans, guided by the recently released “Guide for the Establishment and Maintenance of Contingency Plans for Ports and Airports” (Guide 75/2024). This guide provides a comprehensive framework for the preparation and response phases associated with public health events (ESPs), emphasizing the necessity for simulated exercises to test these plans effectively. Stakeholders have until February 25, 2025, to submit contributions and suggestions regarding the guide, reflecting an inclusive approach to regulatory development.
In a notable shift from previous regulations, which classified “any manifestation of disease” as a public health event pending evaluation by Anvisa, the new RDC mandates that administrators and operators take a proactive role in managing such events. This entails engaging qualified health professionals to assess the situation and determine if the health authority needs to be notified. This change not only streamlines the response process but also empowers local authorities to act swiftly in the face of potential health threats.
Moreover, Anvisa has simplified the detection, initial response, and risk assessment processes for travelers presenting clinical conditions that do not pose a public health risk. Information regarding these cases will now be documented and communicated to Anvisa, facilitating the expeditious handling of operations that previously required the agency’s clearance. This move is expected to enhance operational efficiency while maintaining public health safety.
Another significant development is the revocation of Anvisa’s centralized role in issuing the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (CIVP). This certificate will now be automatically generated through the “Meu SUS Digital” system, further streamlining the vaccination documentation process for travelers.
To support the effective implementation of these changes, Anvisa has issued Technical Note 19/2024/SEI/COVIG/GGPAF/DIRE5/ANVISA, which outlines the critical operational aspects of the new regulation. Key highlights from this note include:
- Designated entry points for travelers and goods.
- Requirements for contingency plans.
- Temporary health measures to be adopted.
- Protocols for managing public health events.
- Guidance for public health communication.
In conclusion, RDC 932/2024 represents a proactive and comprehensive approach toward strengthening Brazil’s public health infrastructure in the context of transportation. By requiring contingency plans and empowering local authorities to manage health events, these regulations aim to create a more resilient system capable of responding to health threats efficiently. As health risks continue to evolve, the ongoing engagement of stakeholders through public consultations will be crucial in refining these measures and ensuring that Brazil remains prepared for future health challenges.
