Governor Polis Announces Colorado Accepted into World Health Organization’s Global Outbreak Network

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DENVER ~ Denver, CO - In a move to strengthen the state's ability to monitor and respond to emerging public health threats, Governor Jared Polis announced today that the State of Colorado has been officially accepted into the World Health Organization's Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN). This acceptance comes after the state's application in February and will connect Colorado's public health experts with a global network of over 360 institutions.

Governor Polis expressed his excitement about joining GOARN, especially during a time when federal public health guidance is becoming less consistent. He stated, "Colorado is taking action to ensure our doctors, scientists, and public health experts are connected to stable, evidence-based information from around the world. Disease does not stop at borders, and this partnership helps ensure Colorado is better prepared to protect people and respond quickly to emerging threats."

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The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) will be representing the state in GOARN. Executive Director Jill Hunsaker Ryan emphasized the importance of this partnership in strengthening their ability to collaborate globally, access timely data, and respond quickly to emerging threats. She also highlighted Colorado's strong communicable disease surveillance system as one of the best in the world.

State Epidemiologist Dr. Rachel Herlihy added that infectious diseases can emerge anywhere and spread quickly. By participating in GOARN, Colorado will be able to identify risks sooner, access global expertise, and contribute their own capabilities to support response efforts worldwide.

This acceptance into GOARN comes at a crucial time as states across the country are seeking reliable, science-based public health guidance amid ongoing changes at the federal level. By engaging directly with global partners through GOARN, Colorado is taking proactive steps to ensure continued access to trusted data, reinforce scientific integrity, and help keep communities safe.

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There is no cost for Colorado to participate in GOARN. The network was established by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2000 and is dedicated to advancing public health emergency preparedness and response. It includes national public health agencies, government institutions, non-governmental organizations, and other technical organizations.

GOARN provides a platform for timely alert and information exchange on public health events, rapid response support, and a structured capacity strengthening program. By bringing together a wealth of expertise and resources, GOARN ensures that countries facing public health events can access timely support. For over 25 years, GOARN has played a vital role in strengthening collaboration across national, regional, and global capacities to tackle public health challenges.

Colorado will continue to work with partners across the country and globe through the Governors Public Health Alliance to strengthen preparedness, improve data sharing, and protect communities from emerging health threats. With this new partnership with GOARN, Colorado is taking proactive steps to ensure the state is better equipped to handle any future public health emergencies.

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