Posted: Tuesday, December 26, 2023. 8:34 am CST.
By Horace Palacio: Following three years of unprecedented global health challenges due to COVID-19, the World Health Organization (WHO) has called for robust preparedness for future pandemics. This appeal came in the wake of the pandemic’s end, which brought extensive “crisis, pain and loss” across the globe, as per a detailed report by Al Arabiya.
In a compelling end-of-year message, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus reflected on the year 2023 as a pivotal moment in addressing major health crises. However, he emphasized that it also highlighted “immense and avoidable suffering.” The call for a significant pandemic accord was made to address the shortcomings in global preparedness revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Highlighting a series of public health victories, Tedros announced the end of Covid-19 as an international public health emergency in May 2023. Alongside this, WHO also concluded the emergency status of mpox, while celebrating the approval of new vaccines for diseases like malaria, dengue, and meningitis. In a notable achievement, Azerbaijan, Belize, and Tajikistan were declared malaria-free.
Addressing the health impacts of climate change, Tedros pointed out their prominence at the recent COP28 UN climate conference. He also remarked on the devastating conflict in Gaza, labeling the Hamas attacks on Israel as “barbaric,” followed by a severe attack on Gaza. The Gaza war, which began with Hamas’s attack on southern Israel in October, resulted in numerous casualties and a pressing need for relief efforts in the region.
Tedros underscored the worrying resurgence of cholera, with over 40 outbreaks worldwide, marking a concerning trend in global health.
As WHO concludes its 75th year, Tedros highlighted the urgency for enhanced emergency preparedness and response systems worldwide. The proposed pandemic accord for 2024 aims to bridge the gaps in global collaboration and equity, offering a unique opportunity to fortify global health against future threats.
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The post In a year of health triumphs and trials, World Health Organization eyes pandemic accord; Hails Belize’s malaria-free milestone appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Tuesday, December 26, 2023. 8:34 am CST. By Horace Palacio: Following three years of unprecedented global health challenges due to COVID-19, the World Health Organization
The post In a year of health triumphs and trials, World Health Organization eyes pandemic accord; Hails Belize’s malaria-free milestone appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
