The World Health Organization (WHO) chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has warned that the world must prepare for a disease outbreak of "even deadlier potential" than COVID-19.
In a speech at the World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva, Switzerland, on Monday (22 May), Ghebreyesus said that the COVID-19 pandemic has shown the world how vulnerable it is to infectious diseases. He warned that the next pandemic could be even more deadly and destructive than COVID-19.
"The threat of another variant emerging that causes new surges of disease and death remains," he said. "When the next pandemic comes knocking - and it will - we must be ready to answer decisively, collectively and equitably."
Ghebreyesus called for a global effort to strengthen the world's ability to prevent, detect and respond to infectious diseases. He said that this includes investing in research and development, strengthening surveillance systems, and building up stockpiles of vaccines and other medical supplies.
The WHO chief's warning comes as the world is still reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has killed more than 6 million people and caused widespread economic disruption.
Ghebreyesus' warning is a reminder that the world is not safe from future pandemics. The next outbreak could be even more deadly and destructive than COVID-19. The world must be prepared to respond to this threat.
Here are some ways that the world can prepare for a deadlier outbreak than COVID-19:
- Invest in research and development of new vaccines and treatments.
- Strengthen surveillance systems to detect new outbreaks early.
- Build up stockpiles of vaccines and other medical supplies.
- Improve global coordination of the response to infectious diseases.
- Educate the public about the risks of infectious diseases and how to protect themselves.
By taking these steps, the world can reduce the risk of a future pandemic and save lives.