For the first time in Cuba, the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund Anticipatory Action mechanism was activated two days before Hurricane Melissa’s impact on the eastern region of the country. Early activation made it possible to protect the continuity and functionality of health services in a context of high vulnerability compounded by the simultaneous circulation of dengue and chikungunya with sustained nationwide transmission.

PAHO played a key role in the development of the technical project proposals that enabled the mobilization of financial resources and the coordination of an integrated response. Through this cooperation, Anticipatory Action funds in the amount of USD 400 000 were mobilized along with in‑kind donations from Global Links exceeding USD 406 000, additional humanitarian contributions totaling EUR 700 000 from the European Union through the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations Department, and financial contributions from the Government of the Republic of Korea (USD 300 000) and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints (USD 300 000), significantly strengthening national health response capacity. In addition, the response to arboviral diseases was integrated into the Emergency Action Plan, ensuring a comprehensive approach to both epidemiological and climate‑related risks.

During the biennium, the country also updated its National Risk Communication Strategy as a result of a South–South and triangular cooperation project between Cuba and Mexico, with technical support from PAHO throughout the development and implementation phases. The strategy was validated with specialists from all provinces, ensuring its territorial relevance and applicability in real emergency contexts.

These achievements demonstrate the value of anticipatory planning and the innovative risk management approaches promoted by PAHO. The experience contributes to reducing health impacts, preventing critical disruptions to essential services, and strengthening the country’s preparedness for future emergencies, setting a precedent for the institutionalization of Anticipatory Action as a public health protection tool.

Photo caption: Hurricane Melissa response in San Luis municipality