Cameroon Deploys First Emergency Medical Team to Combat Epidemics

Cameroon has achieved a historic milestone in its public health preparedness by forming its very first national Emergency Medical Team (EMU). This specialized, multidisciplinary unit, consisting of 80 experts, is now trained and ready to deploy in response to epidemics and natural disasters.

The intensive five-day training program, held in Ebolowa from August 24 to 28, brought together professionals from diverse backgrounds. The team includes doctors, paramedics, logisticians, communication specialists, security personnel, mental health experts, and reproductive health and nutrition specialists. This broad composition reflects the understanding that combating epidemics requires a coordinated effort beyond traditional medical roles.

Participants underwent training across seven modules, covering critical areas such as public health emergency management, infection prevention and control (IPC), and health promotion and community engagement (CREC). Practical workshops focused on the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and field exercises designed to foster seamless teamwork.

This initiative is not intended to replace the existing health system but rather to augment its capabilities. The EMU represents an additional operational capacity that can be rapidly mobilized without disrupting the regular functioning of hospitals. The project draws inspiration from successful models in Senegal and Chad and receives technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and financial backing from ECHO, the European Commission's humanitarian aid department.