A project to strengthen the response to the epidemic in Cuba supports work on COMBIOMED – PAHO/WHO

HAVANA, September 24, 2021 (PAHO) – A set of supplies for the production of intensive therapy monitors and pulse oximeters has arrived at the digital medical technology company CompuMed with the support of the project “Saving Lives and Mitigating Health Effects of the COVID-19 Emergency in Cuba”; A cooperation initiative of the European Union (EU) in the country, jointly developed by the representative of the Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization (PAHO / WHO). The main purpose of this effort is to strengthen the response capabilities of the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) to the pandemic.

Recently, a team from the PAHO/WHO Havana office had the opportunity to visit this institution, which belongs to BioCubaFarma Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Industries Group, and observe how the tested medical equipment was produced. collectibles. MSc Arlem Lesmes Fernández, General Manager of COMBIOMED, ​​together with several specialists from the entity, led a tour of the different areas where the devices are being assembled.

At another time, the parties reviewed the site chosen to start an automated manufacturing line for KN95 masks; Another action planned within the project that will be very useful to counter COVID-19 on the island. Lismes Fernandez commented:

“We are closer to having this technology in the center. We are about to finish preparing the space where the line will be installed, which is very spacious and suitable for this purpose. It even has surrounding areas that can be accommodated for use as warehouses, if necessary. We also have the human resources to maintain it. In general, we consider that we have the conditions to make its operation sustainable.”

The PAHO/WHO/EU project also benefits other Cuban science and innovation institutions, such as the Center for Immunoassay (CIE), the Center for Neuroscience (CNEURO), the National Center for Bioequipment (BIOCEN) and the Center for Genetic Engineering. Biotechnology (CIGB). Undoubtedly, the contribution will be very useful to further enhance patient care, as well as to achieve greater control of the epidemic in the national territory.