Health Sacurity on the Brazil-Venezuela Border vulnerabilities and opportunities

Abstract

Emerging infectious disease outbreaks over the past 50 years reinforce the need for bioprotection capabilities at borders. Migrations of vulnerable populations have contributed to the infectious diseases spread, creating threats to the health security of affected nations. The present study investigated aspects of integrated security, bioprotection and agricultural defense on the Brazil-Venezuela border, analyzing some installed capacities and impacts associated with the migratory crisis of Venezuelans and the functioning of Welcome Operation. The research was exploratory and applied, using quantitative and qualitative techniques, with descriptive analysis. Sanitary vulnerabilities were characterized and installed capacities for agricultural defense were mapped. Finally, some strategic actions are indicated to strengthen bioprotection on the northern border and in Welcome Operation, especially greater integration in the field of epidemiological intelligence of the different agencies acting in the health security of the borders.