The Public Health & Clinical Toxicology Forum was held today (Thursday) under the auspices of H.E. Dr. Mohammed Saif Al Hosani, Ministry of Health’s (MOH) Undersecretary for Health Affairs at the Grand Hayyat Hotel. The event was organized by the Environmental and Occupational Health department of MOH’s Directorate General of Diseases Surveillance & Control and in collaboration with the Middle East & North Africa Clinical Toxicology Association (Menatox).

The forum witnessed a large participation that includes physicians, consultants, nurses, environmental & occupational safety specialist, and residents of the Oman Medical Specialty Board (OMSB).

The opening ceremony included a welcome address delivered by Dr. Saif Al Abri, Director General of Diseases Surveillance & Control where he valued the one-year cooperation between the MOH and the MENATOX in which it resulted in the organization of this event that stresses the significance of practical and knowledge – based preparedness for Chemical and Radiological Emergency. Dr. Al Abri added that the Ministry is preparing for launching the National Toxic Center during this year, and has already brought Clinical Toxicology specialists and built the diagnostic and laboratory capabilities.

Later, Dr. Ziad Kazzi, the MENATOX President highlighted the goals of the Association that involve in advancing the care of patients with chemical exposures or poisoning in the MENA Region, and preventing poisonings through research, surveillance, education, awareness and advocacy for protective policies, in addition to strengthening the resilience and response of communities when faced with chemical and radiological disasters. 

The forum addressed the Toxic disasters in the MENA region as well as the chemical public health emergencies. It further touched upon the global challenges in the diagnosis and managements of Botulism as well as water quality and safety. Moreover, poisons centers in the MENA region were underlined in addition to   Outbreak investigations.