Table 5.

Examples of adaptation options to reduce climate change risks to health in Dominica. Source: Reference [16].

Near-Term Health Adaptation Options

Strengthen solid waste management services across the island by increasing capacity of the DSWMC Enhance enforcement of existing legislation on waste management, vector control, and food safety Increase public awareness of health risks associated with climate change and encourage public involvement in adaptation efforts, with a particular focus on the engagement of unemployed youth Provide training to health sector staff on the health impacts of climate change and how to reduce risks Improve the reliability and safety of water storage practices at community and household levels Improve climate change and health data collection methods and enhance environmental monitoring Enhance the integration of climate services into health decision-making Strengthen the organizational structure of emergency response and ensure workers are familiar with emergency plans Ensure sufficient resources are available to efficiently respond to emergencies

Longer-Term Health Adaptation Options

Develop early warning systems for climate-sensitive health risks utilizing forecast information from the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology Continue studies on the impacts of climate change on vector-borne, waterborne, and foodborne diseases and on food insecurity, including analyses of weather, vector, and epidemiologic data Develop a national electronic database for health, vector, water, weather, and climate data that is accessible by all relevant stakeholders Conduct an assessment of data being collected by various departments and organizations to avoid duplication of efforts and promote collaboration Establish mechanisms for the routine flow of information (from weather, climate, vector, water, and disease surveillance systems) between key departments (e.g., Environmental Health Department, National Pest and Termite Control Company, Dominica Meteorological Services, Division of Agriculture, and DOWASCO) Conduct routine analyses of weather, vector, and epidemiologic data and distribute findings in a bulletin to relevant stakeholders Hold community meetings to increase awareness of protective behaviors through coordination among village councils, the Environmental Health Department, and health centers Convert current paper-based data collection systems to electronic systems Increase the capacity of laboratory facilities to detect disease-causing pathogens in humans, animals, and plants Increase the climate resiliency of health facilities and farm infrastructure Develop emergency plans and clarify departmental roles