By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu,
HEALTH
The world is facing a growing threat from pandemics, with 17 outbreaks of dangerous diseases already reported in 2024, including Marburg virus, Mpox, and avian influenza (H5N1).
A recent report highlights 15 key drivers of pandemic risk, categorized into five groups: Social, Technological, Environmental, Economic, and Political.
These risks underscore the need for collective responsibility in preventing and responding to diseases, rather than relying solely on individual country or sector-level efforts. The global community must come together to address these challenges.
Experts point to the importance of investing in pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response (PPR) to avoid future health crises. The World Bank has established a Financial Intermediary Fund (FIF) for Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response to support developing countries in strengthening their capacity to prevent, prepare and respond to pandemics.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is also working on a Pandemic Agreement to guide global efforts in preventing, preparing and responding to pandemics This agreement aims to ensure equity and collective action in the face of future health threats.
