The objective of the Pan American Health Organization's (PAHO) work in Health Emergencies is to increase the health sector resilience to emergencies and disasters. Our priority is to deliver rapid, predictable, and comprehensive support to Member States in terms of prevention, risk reduction, preparedness, surveillance, response, and early recovery in case of any threat to human health, including outbreaks or disasters caused by natural phenomena, biological, chemical or radiological agent, human activities, conflicts or any other hazard. When national capacities are overwhelmed, PAHO is ready to lead and coordinate the international health response to contain disasters, including outbreaks, and to provide effective relief and recovery to affected populations.
The Pandemic Fund in the Americas
The Americas are particularly vulnerable to health emergencies, largely driven by infectious diseases outbreaks and climate-related disasters. Urbanization, population growth, climate change, and migration contribute to the increasing frequency, severity, and scale of these emergencies, significantly impacting the health and well-being of its populations. PAHO is leading seven projects funded by the Pandemic Fund across countries in the region. These initiatives aim to protect vulnerable communities and mitigate the health, social, and economic impacts of epidemics and pandemics.
The World's First Pandemic Agreement
During the 78th World Health Assembly, following three years of negotiations, the Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO) formally adopted by consensus the world's first Pandemic Agreement. Discover more about this historic milestone and its key highlights.
Natural Hazards
Diseases prone to pandemics and epidemics
Avian Influenza
Cholera
Diphtheria
Yellow Fever
Influenza, SARS CoV2, RSV
Leptospirosis
Oropouche
Western Equine Encephalitis
Other viral diseases
Access all health emergencies courses available on PAHO's Virtual Campus VIEW COURSES
Latest Epidemiological Alerts and Updates
News
Regional Stories
Events
