In a year-end reflection, Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO), has described 2023 as a year of both achievements and ‘avoidable suffering’, News About Nigeria reports.
Dr. Tedros acknowledged ongoing concerns in the field of global public health while also recognising notable milestones and challenges.
After three years of crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic came to an end in May when the WHO chief declared it a public health emergency of international concern.
He expressed satisfaction in seeing life return to normal.
Other achievements included the end of the Mpox outbreak as a global health emergency and the approval of new vaccines for diseases like dengue, meningitis, and malaria.
Several countries, including Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, and Belize, achieved malaria-free status, and progress was made in eliminating various tropical diseases.
Dr. Tedros noted that the last mile of the polio eradication effort is being reached globally.
The introduction of the HPV vaccine in 30 more countries also advanced the goal of eliminating cervical cancer.
The Director-General emphasised that the COP28 meeting in Dubai focused heavily on health problems, demonstrating the growing awareness of the negative effects of the climate crisis on human health.
In September, Heads of State at the United Nations General Assembly committed to advancing universal health coverage, ending tuberculosis, and protecting the world from future pandemics.
However, Dr. Tedros acknowledged the “immense and avoidable suffering and threats to health” during the year.
He cited specific instances, such as the October 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel, which left around 1,300 people dead and over 200 taken hostage.
The impact of the conflict in Gaza resulted in over 20,000 deaths and 53,000 injuries, raising deep concerns about the healthcare infrastructure.
The WHO chief expressed ongoing concerns about conflict and insecurity in various countries worldwide, stating the interconnection between peace and health.
Additionally, issues like poverty and lack of access to clean water contributed to the spread of infectious diseases, with a notable resurgence of cholera.
Looking ahead to 2024, Dr. Tedros highlighted the opportunity to address gaps in global pandemic preparedness.
Governments are currently negotiating the first-ever global agreement, the Pandemic Accord, focused at enhancing collaboration, cooperation, and equity in responding to future pandemics.
Dr. Tedros concluded his message by expressing gratitude to health workers, partners, and colleagues for their shared journey toward achieving health for all.
