WHO global technical consultation on public health and social measures during health emergencies

Book excerpt: The World Health Organization (WHO) held its second global technical consultation on public health and social measures (PHSM) during health emergencies from 21 to 23 November 2023 to accelerate the use of PHSM as essential countermeasures for epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention. The meeting brought together 87 experts from various sectors in more than 30 countries, representing Member States and academia, as well as civil society and international organizations. During the consultation, experts identified critical initial actions to be taken by decision-makers, researchers and communities to facilitate a timely, equitable and context-specific PHSM response to outbreaks of infectious diseases with epidemic and pandemic potential. The resulting compendium encompasses critical initial actions on PHSM for viruses carried by the Aedes mosquito, zoonotic spillover, and novel respiratory viruses with pandemic potential. Experts noted the urgency to advance the more systematic integration of PHSM into existing emergency preparedness and response frameworks. The strategic positioning of PHSM as critical countermeasures alongside vaccines, therapeutics and other medical countermeasures will increase the recognition of their complementary roles in the fight against epidemics and pandemics. The conclusions of the consultation underscore the need for maintaining political and strategic focus on PHSM to maximize their full potential in saving lives and protecting the livelihoods of affected communities during future health emergencies.