Detecting and assessing emergency health threats
WHO's Health Emergencies Programme monitors high-threat diseases on an ongoing basis aiming to identify and respond to outbreaks early and to guide public health decision-making. WHO's regional surveillance system, supported by Member States, has detected more than 2,300 acute public health events over the past decade and identifies approximately 80 outbreaks and public health emergencies in the Region each year. The regional surveillance system was made possible due to the ongoing activities and contributions of the Member States to ensure the region is safer and healthier.
Mass gathering surveillance within the region
With the support of WHO, Member States within the region have previously conducted mass gathering surveillance recognizing the importance of being able to detect potential threats to public health, while ensuring that systems are in place to be able to mount a rapid response. Examples of these mass gathering surveillance efforts include Pacific Mini Games 2017 in Vanuatu, Pacific Mini Games 2019 in Samoa, Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Viet Nam Sea games 2021 and most recently Pacific Games in Solomon Islands 2023.
IHR and surveillance
The International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) provide a global framework for health security for notifying WHO of potential public health emergencies and underscore the essential role of surveillance in international health governance and global disease prevention efforts. According to the International Health Regulation (2005), an event must be reported to WHO by way of the IHR National Focal Point, and within 24 hours of assessment of public health information, if it meets pre-established criteria.
Western Pacific Field Epidemiology Fellowship Programme
WHO supports regional workforce development through a Regional Field Epidemiology Fellowship Programme (WPRO FEFP) which invited 16 fellows from nine countries in 2022 to build a collaborative network of experts. With this activity, WHO strengthened capacity for event-based surveillance and risk assessment of potential public health threats. In 2022, WHO supported several Member States through an assessment of the transmissibility, severity and impact of SARS-CoV-2, and subsequently built capacity within Rapid Response Teams.