Policy considerations for strengthening preparedness and response to arbovirus epidemics and pandemics
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World Health Organization
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vii, 12 p.
This policy brief outlines strategic considerations for strengthening preparedness and response to arbovirus epidemics and pandemics, with a focus on integrated and multisectoral approaches aligned with the WHO Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative and the International Health Regulations (2005). The document addresses the increasing global threat posed by mosquito-, tick- and other arthropod-borne viruses, including dengue, chikungunya, Zika, yellow fever and Oropouche virus disease, whose geographic spread and epidemic potential are being amplified by climate change, urbanization, globalization, environmental changes and population mobility. It emphasizes the need for coordinated prevention, preparedness and response strategies to mitigate the growing burden of arboviral diseases. The publication presents policy recommendations organized around five priority areas: emergency coordination; collaborative integrated surveillance systems; community protection; clinical diagnostics and care; and access to countermeasures. It highlights the importance of cross-sectoral governance, One Health surveillance, laboratory strengthening, risk communication, vector control, resilient health systems and equitable access to vaccines, diagnostics and therapeutics. The document also promotes regional cooperation, digital technologies, workforce development and sustainable urban planning to support preparedness efforts. Intended for policymakers and technical stakeholders across sectors, the brief provides actionable guidance to support national and subnational planning for arbovirus epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response.
This policy brief outlines strategic considerations for strengthening preparedness and response to arbovirus epidemics and pandemics, with a focus on integrated and multisectoral approaches aligned with the WHO Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative and the International Health Regulations (2005). The document addresses the increasing global threat posed by mosquito-, tick- and other arthropod-borne viruses, including dengue, chikungunya, Zika, yellow fever and Oropouche virus disease, whose geographic spread and epidemic potential are being amplified by climate change, urbanization, globalization, environmental changes and population mobility. It emphasizes the need for coordinated prevention, preparedness and response strategies to mitigate the growing burden of arboviral diseases. The publication presents policy recommendations organized around five priority areas: emergency coordination; collaborative integrated surveillance systems; community protection; clinical diagnostics and care; and access to countermeasures. It highlights the importance of cross-sectoral governance, One Health surveillance, laboratory strengthening, risk communication, vector control, resilient health systems and equitable access to vaccines, diagnostics and therapeutics. The document also promotes regional cooperation, digital technologies, workforce development and sustainable urban planning to support preparedness efforts. Intended for policymakers and technical stakeholders across sectors, the brief provides actionable guidance to support national and subnational planning for arbovirus epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response.
Keywords
Arboviruses, Pandemics, Pandemic Preparedness, Yellow Fever, Chikungunya Fever, Incidence, Zika Virus, Zika Virus Infection, Dengue, One Health, Urban Health, Urbanization, City Planning, Medically Underserved Area, Climate Change, Delivery of Health Care, Policy, Latin America, Caribbean Region, Africa, epidemiology, prevention and control