New global epidemic risks intensify, WHO calls for strengthening epidemic prevention and control system

Major threats and emerging risks

The Global Preparedness Monitoring Board, an initiative supported by the World Health Organization and the World Bank that tracks the drivers of epidemic risks and monitors global preparedness for epidemic prevention and control, released a new report at the 15th World Health Summit in Berlin showing that multiple risk factors are increasing the likelihood of new outbreaks.

The report summarizes 15 key drivers of epidemic risks and divides them into five categories: social, technological, environmental, economic and political. The main threats currently faced include lack of trust between and within countries, social inequality, intensive agriculture and the possibility of cross-infection between humans and animals. In addition, the report also reveals new risks beyond traditional health factors, such as cyber attacks, increased biosecurity threats and the rapid spread of misinformation, all of which further increase the risk of an epidemic outbreak.

Immediate action is essential

“The next outbreak won’t come when we have our systems in place,” said Pumafi, Co-Chair of the Global Preparedness Monitoring Board and former Minister of Health of Botswana. “We must invest now in building resilient and equitable primary health care systems to meet the challenges ahead.”

The report reveals the complexity and interdependence of factors that shape the epidemic risk, but also points out that by strengthening the flexibility of response measures, improving social protection levels and promoting international cooperation and collaboration, risks can be significantly reduced and preparedness can be enhanced. All countries should be committed to strengthening health systems to ensure that all communities, especially the most vulnerable and marginalized groups, can enjoy basic health services. GDP alone cannot measure a country’s resilience to the epidemic.

Global joint response to challenges

The report points out that epidemic prevention and control preparations should include a comprehensive strategy for human, animal and environmental health, and calls on all sectors to strengthen cooperation and jointly reduce risks associated with the epidemic.

Kolinda Grabar, Co-Chair of the Global Preparedness Monitoring Board and former President of Croatia, said: “We are facing an urgent and valuable opportunity to review global epidemic prevention and control preparations, assess risks from a perspective beyond the health field, and adopt more proactive response strategies based on our respective national conditions.”