Emergencies

WHO is committed to saving lives and protecting health in times of crisis – whether caused by outbreaks, conflicts or disasters.

The WHO Health Emergencies Programme harnesses the expertise and resources of the three levels of WHO – country offices, regional offices and headquarters – to help Member States build the capacities required to prepare for, prevent, respond to and recover from all hazards that create health emergencies. When national capacities are overwhelmed, WHO works alongside ministries of health and partners to lead and coordinate the international health response.

Strengthening health security in the Pacific

WHO works with Pacific governments and regional partners to design and implement innovative, practical solutions to strengthening the core public health capacities needed to detect, assess and respond to emergencies in the unique context of the Pacific. In particular, it proposes strategies for overcoming the logistical challenges posed by vast distances, geographic isolation and limited human and financial resources.  During times of emergency, WHO is also ready to deploy trained emergency response professionals, medical supplies and resources to support governments and communities in need.