Global health security in the post-COVID-19 era: threats, preparation, and response

Area of Science:

• Global Health Security
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• The post-coronavirus disease 2019 era presents complex global health security threats, including dense populations, human-animal interactions, migration, climate change, humanitarian crises, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and biological research misuse.
• These threats necessitate a resilient public health infrastructure underpinned by universal health coverage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline essential components for robust global health security in the contemporary landscape.
• To emphasize the importance of international collaboration and strengthened public health capacities.

Main Methods:

• Review of current global health security challenges and established public health principles.
• Analysis of the role of international regulations, such as the World Health Organization's International Health Regulations.
• Discussion of specific strategies including a One Health approach for AMR, enhanced infection prevention and control, and biosafety/biosecurity regulations.

Main Results:

• A robust public health system with universal health coverage is foundational for preparedness.
• International Health Regulations are vital for maintaining core capacities like surveillance and information sharing.
• A One Health approach, enhanced infection control, and stringent biosafety/biosecurity measures are critical.

Conclusions:

• Global health security is a shared responsibility requiring coordinated international action.
• Addressing multifaceted threats demands resilient public health systems and adherence to international health regulations.
• Proactive measures in surveillance, AMR control, and laboratory safety are essential for collective security.