WHO has been sharply criticized for not taking a stronger and more vocal role in handling the pandemic. Tedros told the meeting that “clearly, the global system for preparedness needs attention.”He said a WHO commission established in September is reviewing international health regulations. WHO is also working with several countries on developing a pilot program in which countries agree to regular and transparent reviews of their health preparedness, he said. He said this would provide “the political underpinning” for strengthening the global health sector. “If the world is to avoid another crisis on this scale,” Tedros said, “investments in basic public health functions, especially primary health care, are essential, and all roads should lead to universal health coverage with a strong foundation of primary health care.”

Source: Dhaka Tribune December 04, 2020 22:07 UTC