Last updated:  2 February 2024

Lao PDR’s Ministry of Health activated its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre on 31 December 2019, the same day China issued an IHR notification about a new respiratory illness. The WHO Country Office has been working with the Ministry since then to strengthen surveillance against COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases; expand laboratory capacity to test for COVID-19; procure medical supplies and equipment; increase the capacity and preparedness of the health system; and provide technical support on health advice, risk communication and community engagement. 

On 5 May 2023, the WHO Director-General declared COVID-19 over as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). But the COVID-19 pandemic, remains a global health threat that requires sustainable and comprehensive management.

WHO continues to work with countries and areas across the Western Pacific Region to share the latest evidence and prepare for and respond any surges. WHO remains committed to supporting countries to leverage the lessons identified from the emergency response to design the sustained management of COVID-19, and to better prepare for future pandemics.