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Online Course: COVID-19: Methods for detection, Prevention, Response and Control

by Public Health Update
written by Public Health Update

Online Course: COVID-19: Methods for detection, Prevention, Response and Control

This course provides a general introduction to nCoV and emerging respiratory viruses and is intended for public health professionals, incident managers and personnel working for the United Nations, international organizations and NGOs. 

Introduction

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are known to cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).

A novel coronavirus (CoV) was identified in 2019 in Wuhan, China. This is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified in humans.

This course provides a general introduction to emerging respiratory viruses, including novel coronaviruses. By the end of this course, you should be able to describe:

  • The nature of emerging respiratory viruses, how to detect and assess an outbreak, strategies for preventing and controlling outbreaks due to novel respiratory viruses;
  • What strategies should be used to communicate risk and engage communities to detect, prevent and respond to the emergence of a novel respiratory virus.

There are resources attached to each module to help you dive further into this topic.

Learning objective

Describe the fundamental principles of emerging respiratory viruses and how to effectively respond to an outbreak.

Course duration: Approximately 3 hours.
Certificates: No certificate available at this time.
Attention:

  • WHO teams are working on additional modules which will be uploaded in the coming days.
  • You will be notified when new modules and videos are uploaded. Currently, the materials are offered as slide decks.
  • The course will offer a certificate in the future, after all of the modules have been published and a quiz has been added to each module.
  • The course materials are currently being translated into other languages.

Course contents

  • Emerging respiratory viruses, including nCoV: Introduction:
    This brief introduction provides an overview of emerging respiratory viruses, including nCoV.
  • Module A: Introduction to Emerging respiratory viruses, including nCoV:
    Overall learning objective: To be able to explain why an emerging respiratory virus, including nCoV are a global threat to human health
  • Module B: Detecting Emerging respiratory viruses, including nCoV: Surveillance and Laboratory investigation:
    Overall learning objective: To describe how to detect and assess an emerging respiratory virus outbreak
  • Module C: Risk Communication and Community Engagement:
    Overall learning objective: To describe what strategies should be used to communicate risk and engage communities to detect, prevent and respond to nCoV
  • Module D: Preventing and Responding to an emerging respiratory virus, including nCoV:
    Overall learning objective: To describe strategies for preventing and controlling emerging respiratory pathogens, including nCoV outbreaks.
The course is free. Just register for an account on OpenWHO and take the course!

Enroll Now

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WHO has finally named the disease caused by the novel coronavirus: ”COVID-19”

by Public Health Update
written by Public Health Update

WHO has finally named the disease caused by the novel coronavirus: ”COVID-19”

C-O-V-I-D hyphen one nine – COVID-19″

WHO has finally named the disease caused by the novel coronavirus: ”COVID-19.”. COVID-19 is the new name of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV)

Under agreed guidelines between WHO, the World Organisation for Animal Health and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, we had to find a name that did not refer to a geographical location, an animal, an individual or group of people, and which is also pronounceable and related to the disease. – one nine – COVID-19″ 

@DrTedros, WHO Director-General

WHO Director-General’s remarks at the media briefing on 2019-nCoV on 11 February 2020

11 February 2020
Good afternoon.

Before I update you on the coronavirus outbreak, I’d like to start with a few words about Ebola.

Although the world is now focused on coronavirus, we cannot and must not forget Ebola.

We are very encouraged by the current trend. There have only been 3 cases in the past week, and no cases in the past 3 days.

But until we have no cases for 42 days, it’s not over. As you know, any single case could re-ignite the epidemic, and the security situation in eastern DRC remains extremely fragile. So we take the progress on Ebola with caution, although it’s a big success.

We are still in full response mode. Yesterday alone, 5400 alerts were investigated, almost 300 samples were analyzed, more than 700 people were vaccinated and almost 2000 contacts were followed. So still it’s a massive response.

Tomorrow, the Emergency Committee for Ebola will meet to assess whether the Ebola outbreak in DRC continues to constitute a public health emergency of international concern. So you will have more news tomorrow on Ebola.

Regardless of their recommendation, the world needs to continue to fund the Ebola response. Taking our foot off the accelerator now could be a fatal mistake – quite literally.

On Thursday I will travel to Kinshasa for meetings with the President of DRC and other senior ministers to look beyond Ebola, and sketch out ways to strengthen DRC’s health system.

And I would like to use this opportunity to appreciate the government’s leadership. The current status of Ebola would not have been reached without the leadership of President Tshisekedi and the government.

Now to coronavirus.

First of all, we now have a name for the disease:

COVID-19. I’ll spell it: C-O-V-I-D hyphen one nine – COVID-19.

Under agreed guidelines between WHO, the World Organisation for Animal Health and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, we had to find a name that did not refer to a geographical location, an animal, an individual or group of people, and which is also pronounceable and related to the disease.

Having a name matters to prevent the use of other names that can be inaccurate or stigmatizing. It also gives us a standard format to use for any future coronavirus outbreaks.

Now to the coronavirus situation.

As of 6am Geneva time this morning, there were 42,708 confirmed cases reported in China, and tragically we have now surpassed 1000 deaths – 1017 people in China have lost their lives to this virus. Most of the cases and most of the deaths are in Hubei province, Wuhan.

Outside China, there are 393 cases in 24 countries, and 1 death.

Last week I told you that we had engaged WHO’s network of country representatives, as well as the United Nations resident coordinators in countries, to brief them on the outbreak and inform them about the steps they can take.

I also briefed Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and we agreed to leverage the power of the entire UN system in the response.

Today we have also activated a UN Crisis Management Team, to be led by my general, Dr Mike Ryan. This will help WHO focus on the health response while the other agencies can bring their expertise to bear on the wider social, economic and developmental implications of the outbreak so we are all working to our strengths.

So Mike will continue to be the chief and will also coordinate the whole UN response.

As you know, today and tomorrow WHO is hosting a meeting of more than 400 scientists from around the world, both in person and virtually.

The main outcome we expect from this meeting is not immediate answers to every question that we have.

The main outcome is an agreed roadmap on what questions we need to ask, and how we will go about answering those questions.

This is exactly what WHO is for – bringing the world together to coordinate the response. That’s the essence of multilateralism, which is very important for the world.

A research roadmap is also important for organizations that fund research to have a clear sense of what the public health priorities are, so they can make investments that deliver the biggest public health impact.

The development of vaccines and therapeutics is one important part of the research agenda – but it is only one part. They will take time to develop, but in the meantime, we are not defenceless. There are many basic public health interventions that are available to us now, and which can prevent infections now.

The first vaccine could be ready in 18 months, so we have to do everything today using the available weapons to fight this virus, while preparing for the long-term.

We’ve sent supplies to countries to diagnose and treat patients and protect health workers.

We’ve advised countries on how to prevent the spread of disease and care for those who are sick.

We’re strengthening lab capacity all over the world.

We’re training thousands of health workers.

And we’re keeping the public informed about what everyone can do to protect their own health and that of others.

It’s when each and every individual becomes part of the containment strategy that we can succeed. That’s why reaching out to the public directly and telling them the precautions they should take.

Clean your hands regularly, either with alcohol-based rub or soap and water.

Keep your distance from someone who is coughing or sneezing.

And when you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow.

It’s also important to remember that while we need investment in research and development, we also need investment in stopping this outbreak now.

Last week, WHO issued a call for $675 million, which is what the world needs to support preparedness and response operations in countries.

We thank those countries that have contributed so far, and we call on all those who haven’t to contribute urgently.

There are many positive signals in terms of funding, and we hope that all these signals will materialize.

If we invest now in rational and evidence-based interventions, we have a realistic chance of stopping this outbreak.

Maybe you’re tired of me saying window of opportunity, but there is a window of opportunity.

You strike hard when the window of opportunity is there. That’s what we’re saying to the rest of the world. Let’s be serious in using the window of opportunity we have.

The opportunity was created because of the serious measures China is taken in Wuhan and other cities.

But I don’t think this status can stay the same for long. That’s why we have to use the window of opportunity.

If we don’t, we could have far more cases – and far higher costs – on our hands.

I don’t think anybody wants that. This is a common enemy.

Thank you.

WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

OUTBREAK NEWS

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CoursesInternational Jobs & OpportunitiesSchool of Public HealthSummer Courses

Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Summer Institute Courses 2020- 2021

by Public Health Update
written by Public Health Update

Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Summer Institute Courses 2020- 2021

Every summer, the Bloomberg School offers a wide array of courses in a condensed format through its Johns Hopkins Institutes of Public Health. All courses are offered for academic credit, but can also be taken not for credit at a reduced cost. Courses are offered online and at the Baltimore, Maryland campus of the Bloomberg School of Public Health. Students are welcome to select courses from multiple institutes.

The Summer Institutes give you the time you need to enjoy the summer and the flexibility to continue your educational and career goals. From current health care policy to epidemiological research to disease eradication and more—there’s a subject matter to fulfill your interests.

  • 1-day to 3-week sessions
  • Online and on-campus
  • 120+ courses span many topics
  • Credit or non-credit classes
  • World-renowned faculty
  • Open Admissions

All courses are available for academic credit, but participants can choose to take courses not-for-credit for a reduced cost.

The Summer Institutes are organized by individual departments within the Bloomberg School. Students can take courses in multiple institutes or focus exclusively on one department’s offerings.

ACADEMIC YEAR 2020 – 2021 SUMMER INSTITUTE COURSES

American Indian Health

Bioethics
Environmental Health and Engineering

Epidemiology and Biostatistics

Health Emergencies in Large Populations

Health Policy and Management

Health Systems

Health, Behavior and Society

Injury Research and Policy

Mental Health

Tropical Medicine and Public Health

* = offered every other year

Registration: Opens February 11, 2020 First Class Begins May 26, 2020

OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

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Novel Coronavirus(2019-nCoV) Situation Report – 19

by Public Health Update
written by Public Health Update

Novel Coronavirus(2019-nCoV) Situation Report – 19

Data as reported by 8 February 2020

DOWNLOAD PDF FILE

HIGHLIGHTS

  • No new countries reported cases of 2019-nCoV in the past 24 hours.
  • The infection prevention and control (IPC) global network is convened through weekly teleconferences with international IPC experts to discuss technical aspects of IPC measures, share epidemiological updates and experiences regarding the IPC measures put in place in affected countries. In consultation with the global IPC expert network, WHO has released three key IPC interim guidance materials on IPC measures during health care and home care, as well as advice on the use of masks in various settings.

SITUATION IN NUMBERS total and new cases in last 24 hours

Globally 34 886 confirmed (3419 new)
China
34 598 confirmed (3401 new)
6101 severe (1280 new)
723 deaths (86 new)
Outside of China
288 confirmed (18 new)
24 countries
1 death
WHO RISK ASSESSMENT
China: Very High
Regional: Level High
Global: Level High

TECHNICAL FOCUS

Infection prevention and control From the beginning of this outbreak, WHO has convened several global expert networks for laboratory, clinical management, mathematical modelling, risk communication and community engagement, and infection prevention and control (IPC). The IPC global network is convened through weekly teleconferences with international IPC experts to discuss technical aspects of IPC measures, share epidemiological updates and experiences regarding the IPC measures put in place in affected countries. International participants are members of the Global Infection Prevention and Control Network (GIPCN) or members of relevant institutions caring for infected 2019-nCoV acute respiratory disease patients. In consultation with the global IPC expert network, WHO has released three key IPC interim guidance materials. These materials are available here: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/technicalguidance The first document – Infection prevention and control during health care when novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) infection is suspected.

Interim guidance v2 – defines the following five IPC strategies to prevent or limit human to human transmission in health care settings:

  1. Ensuring triage, early recognition, and source control (isolating patients with suspected 2019-nCoV infection);
  2. Applying standard precautions for all patients;
  3. Implementing empiric additional precautions (droplet and contact and, whenever applicable, airborne precautions) for suspected cases of 2019-nCoV infection;
  4. Implementing administrative controls;
  5. Using environmental and engineering controls.

The second document – Home care for patients with suspected novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) infection presenting with mild symptoms and management of contacts. Guidance- v2 – provides recommendations in the context of home care for mild patients. Guidance is provided

(i) for a household/caregiver’s protection including which personal protective equipment (PPE) to wear when caring for someone infected with 2019-nCoV and on environmental and waste management;
(ii) for an infected individual with mild disease, for example to wear a mask; and
(iii) for the management of contacts (including caregivers/health care workers) which includes 14 days of monitoring of health for contacts.

The third document – Advice on the use of masks in the community, during home care and in health care settings in the context of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) outbreak. Interim guidance – v1. In community settings, medical masks are not recommended for people without symptoms. For those who choose to wear medical masks, appropriate mask management should be followed, which includes how to use and dispose of masks. Symptomatic individuals are recommended to wear medical masks and seek early medical care if there are any signs of respiratory distress.

Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV)

Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV)

RECOMMENDATIONS AND ADVICE FOR THE PUBLIC

During previous outbreaks due to other coronavirus (Middle-East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), human-to-human transmission occurred through droplets, contact and fomites, suggesting that the transmission mode of the 2019-nCoV can be similar.

The basic principles to reduce the general risk of transmission of acute respiratory infections include the following:

  • Avoiding close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections.
  • Frequent hand-washing, especially after direct contact with ill people or their environment.
  • Avoiding unprotected contact with farm or wild animals.
  • People with symptoms of acute respiratory infection should practice cough etiquette (maintain distance, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, and wash hands).
  • Within health care facilities, enhance standard infection prevention and control practices in hospitals, especially in emergency departments.

WHO does not recommend any specific health measures for travellers. In case of symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness either during or after travel, travellers are encouraged to seek medical attention and share their travel history with their health care provider.

DOWNLOAD PDF FILE

DOWNLOAD: Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) technical guidance

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Obesity-Related Diseases Among Top Three Killers in Most Countries, World Bank Says

by Public Health Update
written by Public Health Update

Obesity-Related Diseases Among Top Three Killers in Most Countries, World Bank Says

WASHINGTON, February 6, 2020 — Long believed to be a problem exclusive to high-income countries, evidence shows that over 70 percent of the world’s 2 billion overweight and obese individuals live in low- or middle-income countries. Faced with increasing disability, mortality, health care costs, and lower productivity, obesity is a growing concern for all countries regardless of income level, says a new World Bank report launched here today.

Obesity has a major impact on national economies and on human capital by reducing productivity and life expectancy and increasing disability and health care costs. It is projected that in the next 15 years, the costs of obesity will total more than US$7 trillion in developing countries.

The report Obesity: Health and Economic Consequences of an impending global challenge states that obesity-related diseases are now among the top three killers across the globe, except in Sub-Saharan Africa. Recent data show that since 1975 obesity has nearly tripled and now accounts for 4 million deaths worldwide every year.

Factors escalating the obesity epidemic include ultra-processed and sugary foods, reduced physical activity, and higher incomes, which often go hand-in-hand with a higher consumption of unhealthy foods.

“As countries grow economically and per capita income rise, the devastating impacts and burden of obesity will continue to shift toward the poor,” says Dr. Meera Shekar, Global Lead for Nutrition at the World Bank and co-author of the report along with Dr. Barry Popkin from the University of North Carolina.

In China between 2000 and 2009, health care costs associated with obesity grew from half a percent to more than 3 percent of China’s annual health care expenditure. In Brazil, obesity-related health care costs are expected to double, from less than US$6 billion in 2010 to more than US$10 billion in 2050.

In addition to directly increased health care costs, there are also indirect costs associated with, for example, reduced work productivity, absenteeism, and early retirement, which affect individuals and societies.

Many countries across the globe are also suffering from what is referred to as the “double burden of malnutrition”—high stunting and increasing obesity rates, further compromising their human capital.

“One of the most effective ways to address obesity and other non-communicable diseases is by ramping up investments in affordable, quality primary health care”, says Dr. Muhammad Pate, Global Director for Health, Nutrition and Population at the World Bank. “This makes sense both from a health and an economic perspective. Putting more resources on the frontlines to detect and treat conditions early, before they become more serious, saves lives, improves health outcomes, reduces health care costs and strengthens preparedness.”

The report stresses that in order to avoid the rise of obesity in future generations, governments and development partners must adopt a comprehensive approach. Effective primary health systems will be crucial together with a strong focus on preventative measures such as mandating the labeling of processed foods; increasing consumer education; reducing salt and sugar-sweetened beverages; and investing in early childhood nutrition programs.

The report also highlights the importance of strong fiscal policies, such as taxation of unhealthy foods; and enhancing urban design, such as playgrounds in schools and walking and bicycle paths. 

Financial support for the preparation of the report was provided by the Government of Japan through the Japan Trust Fund for Scaling Up Nutrition.

PRESS RELEASE NO:2020/111/HNP

 

 

The crippling costs of obesity

The crippling costs of obesity

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Statement of Need : Standard Operating Procedure, 2076

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written by Public Health Update

Statement of Need : Standard Operating Procedure, 2076

Download Pdf file: Statement of Need : Standard Operating Procedure, 2076

International Plan, Policy & Guidelines

National Plan, Policy & Guidelines

Download Pdf file: Statement of Need : Standard Operating Procedure, 2076

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National Plan, Policy & Guidelines

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Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) advice for the public: Myth busters

by Public Health Update
written by Public Health Update

Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) advice for the public: Myth busters

World Health Organization

Is it safe to receive a letter or a package from China?

Yes, it is safe. People receiving packages from China are not at risk of contracting the new coronavirus. From previous analysis, we know coronaviruses do not survive long on objects, such as letters or packages.

Can pets at home spread the new coronavirus (2019-nCoV)?

At present, there is no evidence that companion animals/pets such as dogs or cats can be infected with the new coronavirus. However, it is always a good idea to wash your hands with soap and water after contact with pets. This protects you against various common bacteria such as E.coli and Salmonella that can pass between pets and humans.

Do vaccines against pneumonia protect you against the new coronavirus?
No. Vaccines against pneumonia, such as pneumococcal vaccine and Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib) vaccine, do not provide protection against the new coronavirus.

The virus is so new and different that it needs its own vaccine. Researchers are trying to develop a vaccine against 2019-nCoV, and WHO is supporting their efforts.

Although these vaccines are not effective against 2019-nCoV, vaccination against respiratory illnesses is highly recommended to protect your health.

Can regularly rinsing your nose with saline help prevent infection with the new coronavirus?
No. There is no evidence that regularly rinsing the nose with saline has protected people from infection with the new coronavirus. 

There is some limited evidence that regularly rinsing nose with saline can help people recover more quickly from the common cold. However, regularly rinsing the nose has not been shown to prevent respiratory infections.

Can gargling mouthwash protect you from infection with the new coronavirus?
No. There is no evidence that using mouthwash will protect you from infection with the new coronavirus.

Some brands or mouthwash can eliminate certain microbes for a few minutes in the saliva in your mouth. However, this does not mean they protect you from 2019-nCoV infection.

Can eating garlic help prevent infection with the new coronavirus?
Garlic is a healthy food that may have some antimicrobial properties. However, there is no evidence from the current outbreak that eating garlic has protected people from the new coronavirus.

Does putting on sesame oil block the new coronavirus from entering the body?
No. Sesame oil does not kill the new coronavirus. There are some chemical disinfectants that can kill the 2019-nCoV on surfaces. These include bleach/chlorine-based disinfectants, either solvents, 75% ethanol, peracetic acid and chloroform.

However, they have little or no impact on the virus if you put them on the skin or under your nose. It can even be dangerous to put these chemicals on your skin.

Does the new coronavirus affect older people, or are younger people also susceptible?
People of all ages can be infected by the new coronavirus (2019-nCoV). Older people, and people with pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease) appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with the virus. 

WHO advises people of all ages to take steps to protect themselves from the virus, for example by following good hand hygiene and good respiratory hygiene.

Are antibiotics effective in preventing and treating the new coronavirus?
No, antibiotics do not work against viruses, only bacteria.

The new coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is a virus and, therefore, antibiotics should not be used as a means of prevention or treatment.

However, if you are hospitalized for the 2019-nCoV, you may receive antibiotics because bacterial co-infection is possible.

Are there any specific medicines to prevent or treat the new coronavirus?
To date, there is no specific medicine recommended to prevent or treat the new coronavirus (2019-nCoV).

However, those infected with the virus should receive appropriate care to relieve and treat symptoms, and those with severe illness should receive optimized supportive care. Some specific treatments are under investigation, and will be tested through clinical trials. WHO is helping to accelerate research and development efforts with a range or partners.

World Health Organization

Related updates: OUTBREAK NEWS

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Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) advice for the public: Myth busters

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Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) advice for the public: Myth busters

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World Cancer Day 2020: ”I Am and I Will” #WorldCancerDay

by Public Health Update
written by Public Health Update

World Cancer Day 2020: ”I Am and I Will” #WorldCancerDay

World Cancer Day every 4 February is the global uniting initiative led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). By raising worldwide awareness, improving education and catalysing personal, collective and government action, we’re working together to reimagine a world where millions of preventable cancer deaths are saved and access to life-saving cancer treatment and care is equal for all – no matter who you are or where you live. Because, we believe that cancer isn’t just a health issue but a human issue that touches all of us. Created in 2000, World Cancer Day has grown into a positive movement for everyone, everywhere to unite under one voice to face one of the greatest challenges in our history.

World Cancer Day: ‘I Am and I Will’ campaign.

World Cancer Day: ‘I Am and I Will’ campaign.

World Cancer Day is an initiative of the Union for International Cancer Control, the largest and oldest international cancer organisation committed to taking the lead in uniting the cancer community to reduce the global cancer burden, promote greater equity, and integrate cancer control into the world health and development agenda.

The theme: 2019 – 2021

2020 marks the midway point of the 3-year ‘I Am and I Will’ campaign. ‘I Am and I Will’ is an empowering call-to-action urging for personal commitment and represents the power of individual action taken now to impact the future.

Why cancer?

Cancer is a critical health and human issue. Today, 9.6 million people each year will die from cancer. Making it the second-most deadly disease. Yet, at least one third of cancers can be prevented. This gives us all every reason to act.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Together, we will change that.

Did you know?

  • 9.6 million people die from cancer every year – this number is predicted to almost double by 2030.
  • 70% of cancer deaths occur in low-to-middle income countries.
  • Less than 30% of low-income countries have cancer treatment services available (compared to 90% in high-income countries)
  • The total annual economic cost of cancer is estimated at approximately US$1.16 trillion.
  • At least one third of common cancers are preventable.
  • Up to 3.7 million lives could be saved each year through resource appropriate strategies for prevention, early detection and timely and quality treatment.

Cancer Signs and Symptoms

Cancer Sign and Symptoms

Cancer Sign and Symptoms

The most urgent issues in cancer

Awareness, understanding, myths and misinformation

  • Increased awareness and accurate information and knowledge can empower all of us to recognise early warning signs, make informed choices about our health and counter our own fears and misconceptions about cancer.

Government action and accountability

  • Proactive and effective actions on national health planning are possible and feasible in every country, and when governments step up efforts to reduce and prevent cancer, they place their nations in a stronger position to advance socially and economically.

Prevention and risk reduction

  • At least one third of cancers are preventable giving us every reason to champion healthy choices and prevention strategies for all, so that we have the best chance to prevent and reduce our cancer risks.

Equity in access to cancer services

  • Life-saving cancer diagnosis and treatment should be equal for all – no matter who you are, your level of education, level of income or where you live in the world. By closing the equity gap, we can save millions of lives.

Financial and economic burden

  • There is a compelling financial argument for committing resources to cancer control. Financial investment can be cost-effective and can potentially save the global economy billions of dollars in cancer treatment costs and offer positive gains in increased survival, productivity and improved quality of life.

Reducing the skills gap

  • Skilled and knowledgeable healthcare workers are one of the most powerful ways we can deliver quality cancer care. Addressing the current skills gap and shortage of healthcare professionals is the clearest way to achieve progress in reducing the number of premature deaths from cancer.

Beyond physical: mental and emotional Impact

  • Quality cancer care includes dignity, respect, support and love and considers not just the physical impact of cancer but respects the emotional, sexual and social wellbeing of each individual and their carer.

Working together as one

  • Strategic collaborations that involve civil society, companies, cities, international organisations and agencies, research and academic institutions are the strongest ways to help expand awareness and support, convert political will into action and deliver comprehensive and cohesive solutions. Joining efforts leads to powerful action at every level.

#IAmAndIWill #WorldCancerDay

Recommended Readings

October Month: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Accelerate efforts to eliminate cervical cancer: WHO

Create a future without cancer. The time to act is now. #IAmAndIWill

Nine ways to reduce Cancer risk

Cancer Country Profile: NEPAL – World Health Organization

Govt launches cancer registry across nation

[Research Article] Should low-income countries invest in breast cancer screening?

Prevention and Control of Cervical Cancer (New WHO guide)

World Cancer Day: ‘I Am and I Will’ campaign.

World Cancer Day: ‘I Am and I Will’ campaign.

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Humanitarian Health & Emergency ResponseInternational HealthInternational Plan, Policy & GuidelinesOutbreak NewsPublic HealthPublic Health NotesResearch & Publication

What is Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC)?

by Public Health Update
written by Public Health Update

What is Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC)?

 

According to International Health Regulations (2005), the term ”Public Health Emergency of International Concern” is defined as “an extraordinary event which is determined, as provided in these regulations;

  • to constitute a public health risk to other States through the international spread of disease; and
  • to potentially require a coordinated international response”. This definition implies a situation that: is serious, unusual or unexpected; carries implications for public health beyond the affected State’s national border; and may require immediate international action.

Recommended Category: PUBLIC HEALTH NOTES

Determination of a public health emergency of international concern

The responsibility of determining whether an event is within this category lies with the WHO Director-General and requires the convening of a committee of experts – the IHR Emergency Committee. This committee advises the Director General on the recommended measures to be promulgated on an emergency basis, known as temporary recommendations. Temporary recommendations include health measures to be implemented by the State Party experiencing the PHEIC, or by other States Parties, to prevent or reduce the international spread of disease and avoid unnecessary interference with international traffic.

The Emergency Committee also gives advice on the determination of the event as a PHEIC in circumstances where there is inconsistency in the assessment of the event between the Director-General and the affected country/countries. The Emergency Committee continues to provide advice to the Director-General throughout the duration of the PHEIC, including any necessary changes to the recommended measures and on the determination of PHEIC termination. WHO maintains an IHR roster of experts and the members of an IHR Emergency Committee are selected from this roster and/or WHO expert advisory panels and committees. At least one member of the Emergency Committee should be an expert nominated by a State Party within whose territory the event arises.

International Health Regulations (2005), article 12 defines the determination of a public health emergency of international concern as;

  1. The Director-General shall determine, on the basis of the information received, in particular from the State Party within whose territory an event is occurring, whether an event constitutes a public health emergency of international concern in accordance with the criteria and the procedure set out in these Regulations.
  2. If the Director-General considers, based on an assessment under these Regulations, that a public health emergency of international concern is occurring, the Director-General shall consult with the State Party in whose territory the event arises regarding this preliminary determination. If the Director General and the State Party are in agreement regarding this determination, the Director-General shall, in accordance with the procedure set forth in Article 49, seek the views of the Committee established under Article 48 (hereinafter the “Emergency Committee”) on appropriate temporary recommendations.
  3. If, following the consultation in paragraph 2 above, the Director-General and the State Party in whose territory the event arises do not come to a consensus within 48 hours on whether the event constitutes a public health emergency of international concern, a determination shall be made in accordance with the procedure set forth in Article 49.
  4. In determining whether an event constitutes a public health emergency of international concern, the Director-General shall consider:
    (a) information provided by the State Party;
    (b) the decision instrument contained in Annex 2;
    (c) the advice of the Emergency Committee;
    (d) scientific principles as well as the available scientific evidence and other relevant information; and
    (e) an assessment of the risk to human health, of the risk of international spread of disease and of the risk of interference with international traffic.
  5. If the Director-General, following consultations with the State Party within whose territory the public health emergency of international concern has occurred, considers that a public health emergency of international concern has ended, the Director-General shall take a decision in accordance with the procedure set out in Article 49.

 

Purpose of International Health Regulations (2005)

The purpose and scope of the International Health Regulations (2005) are “to prevent, protect against, control and provide a public health response to the international spread of disease in ways that are commensurate with and restricted to public health risks, and which avoid unnecessary interference with international traffic and trade”. Because the IHR (2005) are not limited to specific diseases but apply to new and ever changing public health risks, they are intended to have long-lasting relevance in the international response to the emergence and spread of disease. The IHR (2005) also provide the legal basis for important health documents applicable to international travel and transport and sanitary protections for the users of international airports, ports, and ground crossings.

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WHO declares the new coronavirus outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern

by Public Health Update
written by Public Health Update

WHO declares the new coronavirus outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern

#Coronavirus declared a public health emergency of international concern by World Health Organization (WHO)

Statement on the second meeting of the International Health Regulations (2005) Emergency Committee regarding the outbreak of novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV)

Novel #Coronavirus (2019- #nCoV): Advice for the Public

30 January 2020 Statement, Geneva, Switzerland
The second meeting of the Emergency Committee convened by the WHO Director-General under the International Health Regulations (IHR) (2005) regarding the outbreak of novel coronavirus 2019 in the People’s Republic of China, with exportations to other countries, took place on Thursday, 30 January 2020, from 13:30 to 18:35 Geneva time (CEST). The Committee’s role is to give advice to the Director-General, who makes the final decision on the determination of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). The Committee also provides public health advice or suggests formal Temporary Recommendations as appropriate. 

Proceedings of the meeting

  • Members and advisors of the Emergency Committee were convened by teleconference
  • The Director-General welcomed the Committee and thanked them for their support. He turned the meeting over to the Chair, Professor Didier Houssin.
  • Professor Houssin also welcomed the Committee and gave the floor to the Secretariat.
  • A representative of the department of compliance, risk management, and ethics briefed the Committee members on their roles and responsibilities.
  • Committee members were reminded of their duty of confidentiality and their responsibility to disclose personal, financial, or professional connections that might be seen to constitute a conflict of interest. Each member who was present was surveyed and no conflicts of interest were judged to be relevant to the meeting. There were no changes since the previous meeting.
  • The Chair then reviewed the agenda for the meeting and introduced the presenters.
  • Representatives of the Ministry of Health of the People’s Republic of China reported on the current situation and the public health measures being taken. There are now 7711 confirmed and 12167 suspected cases throughout the country. Of the confirmed cases, 1370 are severe and 170 people have died. 124 people have recovered and been discharged from hospital.
  • The WHO Secretariat provided an overview of the situation in other countries. There are now 83 cases in 18 countries. Of these, only 7 had no history of travel in China. There has been human-to-human transmission in 3 countries outside China. One of these cases is severe and there have been no deaths.
  • At its first meeting, the Committee expressed divergent views on whether this event constitutes a PHEIC or not. At that time, the advice was that the event did not constitute a PHEIC, but theCommittee members agreed on the urgency of the situation and suggested that the Committee should continue its meeting on the next day, when it reached the same conclusion.
  • This second meeting takes place in view of significant increases in numbers of cases and additional countries reporting confirmed cases.

 

Advice for Public

Advice for Public

Conclusions and advice

  • The Committee welcomed the leadership and political commitment of the very highest levels of Chinese government, their commitment to transparency, and the efforts made to investigate and contain the current outbreak. China quickly identified the virus and shared its sequence, so that other countries could diagnose it quickly and protect themselves, which has resulted in the rapid development of diagnostic tools.
  • The very strong measures the country has taken include daily contact with WHO and comprehensive multi-sectoral approaches to prevent further spread. It has also taken public health measures in other cities and provinces; is conducting studies on the severity and transmissibility of the virus, and sharing data and biological material. The country has also agreed to work with other countries who need their support. The measures China has taken are good not only for that country but also for the rest of the world.
  • The Committee acknowledged the leading role of WHO and its partners. 
  • The Committee also acknowledged that there are still many unknowns, cases have now been reported in five WHO regions in one month, and human-to-human transmission has occurred outside Wuhan and outside China. 
  • The Committee believes that it is still possible to interrupt virus spread, provided that countries put in place strong measures to detect disease early, isolate and treat cases, trace contacts, and promote social distancing measures commensurate with the risk. It is important to note that as the situation continues to evolve, so will the strategic goals and measures to prevent and reduce spread of the infection. The Committee agreed that the outbreak now meets the criteria for a Public Health Emergency of International Concern and proposed the following advice to be issued as Temporary Recommendations.
  • The Committee emphasized that the declaration of a PHEIC should be seen in the spirit of support and appreciation for China, its people, and the actions China has taken on the frontlines of this outbreak, with transparency, and, it is to be hoped, with success. In line with the need for global solidarity, the Committee felt that a global coordinated effort is needed to enhance preparedness in other regions of the world that may need additional support for that.

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Advice to WHO

  • The Committee welcomed a forthcoming WHO multidisciplinary technical mission to China, including national and local experts. The mission should review and support efforts to investigate the animal source of the outbreak, the clinical spectrum of the disease and its severity, the extent of human-to-human transmission in the community and in healthcare facilities, and efforts to control the outbreak. This mission will provide information to the international community to aid in understanding the situation and its impact and enable sharing of experience and successful measures.
  • The Committee wished to re-emphasize the importance of studying the possible source, to rule out hidden transmission and to inform risk management measures
  • The Committee also emphasized the need for enhanced surveillance in regions outside Hubei, including pathogen genomic sequencing, to understand whether local cycles of transmission are occurring.
  • WHO should continue to use its networks of technical experts to assess how best this outbreak can be contained globally.
  • WHO should provide intensified support for preparation and response, especially in vulnerable countries and regions.
  • Measures to ensure rapid development and access to potential vaccines, diagnostics, antiviral medicines and other therapeutics for low- and middle-income countries should be developed.
  • WHO should continue to provide all necessary technical and operational support to respond to this outbreak, including with its extensive networks of partners and collaborating institutions, to implement a comprehensive risk communication strategy, and to allow for the advancement of research and scientific developments in relation to this novel coronavirus.
  • WHO should continue to explore the advisability of creating an intermediate level of alert between the binary possibilities of PHEIC or no PHEIC, in a way that does not require reopening negotiations on the text of the IHR (2005).
  • WHO should timely review the situation with transparency and update its evidence-based recommendations.
  • The Committee does not recommend any travel or trade restriction based on the current information available.

The Director-General declared that the outbreak of 2019-nCoV constitutes a PHEIC and accepted the Committee’s advice and issued this advice as Temporary Recommendations under the IHR.

To the People’s Republic of China

Continue to:

  • Implement a comprehensive risk communication strategy to regularly inform the population on the evolution of the outbreak, the prevention and protection measures for the population, and the response measures taken for its containment.
  • Enhance public health measures for containment of the current outbreak.
  • Ensure the resilience of the health system and protect the health workforce.
  • Enhance surveillance and active case finding across China.
  • Collaborate with WHO and partners to conduct investigations to understand the epidemiology and the evolution of this outbreak and measures to contain it.
  • Share relevant data on human cases.
  • Continue to identify the zoonotic source of the outbreak, and particularly the potential for circulation with WHO as soon as it becomes available.
  • Conduct exit screening at international airports and ports, with the aim of early detection of symptomatic travelers for further evaluation and treatment, while minimizing interference with international traffic.
To all countries

It is expected that further international exportation of cases may appear in any country. Thus, all countries should be prepared for containment, including active surveillance, early detection, isolation and case management, contact tracing and prevention of onward spread of 2019-nCoVinfection, and to share full data with WHO. Technical advice is available on the WHO website.

  • Countries are reminded that they are legally required to share information with WHO under the IHR.
  • Any detection of 2019-nCoV in an animal (including information about the species, diagnostic tests, and relevant epidemiological information) should be reported to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) as an emerging disease.
  • Countries should place particular emphasis on reducing human infection, prevention of secondary transmission and international spread, and contributing to the international response though multi-sectoral communication and collaboration and active participation in increasing knowledge on the virus and the disease, as well as advancing research.
  • The Committee does not recommend any travel or trade restriction based on the current information available.
  • Countries must inform WHO about any travel measures taken, as required by the IHR. Countries are cautioned against actions that promote stigma or discrimination, in line with the principles of Article 3 of the IHR.
  • The Committee asked the Director-General to provide further advice on these matters and, if necessary, to make new case-by-case recommendations, in view of this rapidly evolving situation.

To the global community

As this is a new coronavirus, and it has been previously shown that similar coronaviruses required substantial efforts to enable regular information sharing and research, the global community should continue to demonstrate solidarity and cooperation, in compliance with Article 44 of the IHR (2005), in supporting each other on the identification of the source of this new virus, its full potential for human-to-human transmission, preparedness for potential importation of cases, and research for developing necessary treatment.

Provide support to low- and middle-income countries to enable their response to this event, as well as to facilitate access to diagnostics, potential vaccines and therapeutics.

Under Article 43 of the IHR, States Parties implementing additional health measures that significantly interfere with international traffic (refusal of entry or departure of international travellers, baggage, cargo, containers, conveyances, goods, and the like, or their delay, for more than 24 hours) are obliged to send to WHO the public health rationale and justification within 48 hours of their implementation. WHO will review the justification and may request countries to reconsider their measures. WHO is required to share with other States Parties the information about measures and the justification received.

The Emergency Committee will be reconvened within three months or earlier, at the discretion of the Director-General.

The Director-General thanked the Committee for its work.

WHO WEBSITE

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