International Day of Epidemic Preparedness: Battered by the Covid-19 pandemic, people have learned about epidemic preparedness the hard way. In an effort to prepare for future outbreaks and raise awareness about epidemics at all levels, the United Nations and the World Health Organization have designated December 27 as the International Day for Epidemic Preparedness.
International Day of Epidemic Preparedness: History
The day was first celebrated in December last year, when the United Nations General Assembly emphasized the need to advocate for the importance of epidemic preparedness, prevention and partnership.
According to the United Nations, it is necessary to learn lessons about epidemic control and apply them to strengthen epidemic prevention in order to respond as appropriately as possible to future adversity. It also underlines the importance of solidarity and partnership between every international organization, and even every community and individual to fight a plague epidemic like Covid-19.
On the occasion of the day, the United Nations General Assembly had invited all its member states to use awareness campaigns and education to exchange information, scientific knowledge and best practices to increase preparedness for epidemics.
International Day of Epidemic Preparedness: Meaning
According to a statement from the WHO, the need is of the moment to invest in systems that can help detect, prevent and respond to outbreaks that could disrupt the health systems, supply chains and livelihoods of the poorest countries in particular. The UN also aims to popularize the One Health approach that promotes the integration of plant health, human health and animal health, along with other relevant sectors.
According to António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, Covid-19 has given us the opportunity to build a sustainable and more equal work. He went on to say that the response to the widespread discontent that preceded the pandemic must be based on a new global deal and social contract. One that has the ability to create equal opportunities for all while respecting their rights and freedoms.
Read all the Latest News, Breaking News and Coronavirus News here.