Urgent Need For Researchers And Governments To Collaborate

WHO and CEPI Issue Call to Action for Epidemic Preparedness

Urgent Need for Researchers and Governments to Collaborate

Geneva, August 1st, 2024 - Today, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and the World Health Organization (WHO) issued an urgent call to action for researchers and governments to strengthen global preparedness for future epidemics.

The joint statement underscores the need for enhanced research and development (R&D) to create vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics that can be rapidly deployed in the face of emerging infectious diseases.

CEPI's CEO, Dr. Richard Hatchett, emphasized the importance of investing in R&D now to prevent and control pandemics. "The lessons of COVID-19 have taught us that early and decisive action is crucial," he said. "By collaborating with researchers and governments, we can accelerate the development of life-saving technologies and ensure they are available when needed most."

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus echoed this sentiment. "The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the vulnerability of our global health systems," he stated. "We must prioritize epidemic preparedness and invest in R&D to reduce the impact of future threats."

CEPI and WHO are urging researchers to focus on emerging infectious diseases with pandemic potential and to develop innovative approaches to vaccine design and manufacturing. They also call on governments to provide funding and support for R&D and to establish strong public health systems that can rapidly respond to health emergencies.

The joint statement is a wake-up call for the global community to prioritize epidemic preparedness and ensure they are fully equipped to prevent and control future health crises.