WHO Urges Global Adoption of Pandemic Preparedness Agreement to Prevent Future Crises

The World Health Organization (WHO) leader has called on nations worldwide to support and adopt a new Pandemic Agreement aimed at strengthening international cooperation and response mechanisms to prevent another global health crisis like COVID-19. This crucial development coincides with the ongoing annual World Health Assembly, where member states are deliberating on this historic treaty. The agreement, finalized after over three years of negotiations, emphasizes enhanced detection, surveillance, and equitable distribution of vaccines and treatments during health emergencies.

Despite facing opposition from some countries, including the United States which initially withdrew from negotiations, the consensus reflects a collective commitment to better pandemic preparedness. The treaty also includes a Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) mechanism designed to facilitate sharing of pathogens and resulting benefits such as vaccines and diagnostics.

The WHO head praised the perseverance of the negotiators and expressed hope for the agreement’s adoption, which is expected to occur on Tuesday. Once ratified, the treaty will require sixty countries to formally endorse it before coming into force. The agreement aims to foster a coordinated, transparent, and equitable approach to pandemic prevention, ensuring the world is better equipped for future health threats.

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