Strengthening Regional Operational Readiness

Overview

Countries across the Western Pacific Region continue to make strong progress in implementing the International Health Regulations (IHR, 2005) and strengthening national health security capacities. Yet systems operating in isolation can limit the speed and scale of a collective response. Recent international public health emergencies including the COVID-19 pandemic and mpox outbreaks underscore a vital lesson that even the best prepared country cannot act alone. To be ready for the next emergency, countries and areas must also strengthen regional tools, interoperable systems and coordination across borders. This briefer illustrates steps to consult and act on priorities to strengthen the operational readiness of the Region for public health emergencies.