Implementing international health regulation (2005) in the brazilian legal-administrative system

Abstract

The scope of this study was to analyze how the International Sanitary Regulation (ISR 2005)has been incorporated into the Brazilian legal-administrative system, in relation to san­itary control measures involving freight, means of transportation and travelers and possible al­terations to health surveillance activities, compe­tencies and procedures. This case study has been undertaken using a qualitative approach, of a descriptive and exploratory nature, using insti­tutional data sources and interviews with key-in­formants involved in implementing ISR (2005). Alterations to the Brazilian legal-administrative system resulting from ISR (2005) were identified, in relation to standards, special competencies and procedures relating to sanitary controls for freight, modes of transportation and travelers. In its pres­ent form, the International Sanitary Regulation is an instrument that, in addition to introducing new international and national sanitary control concepts and elements, also helps to clarify ques­tions that are helpful on a national level, relating to the specific competencies and procedures which will, to a certain extent, put pressure on adminis­trative structures in the areas of sanitary control and surveillance.