Question

Has WHO learned it’s lesson from Ebola in handling COVID-19? Why or why not?

Answer 1

Ebola outbreak in Democratic Republic of Congo served as an eye opener for many health organisations including WHO. During the Ebola outbreak, testing and surveillance were increased and community awareness was done.

However, COVID-19 timeline shows another picture. In December 2019, China reported to WHO about cases of pneumonia but with unknown cause in the Hubei province. WHO didn'T issue an advisory then. It was late and formed an emergency body in January. It sent technical guidance to countries to manage the cases. Limited contact transmission was told in mid January. Even, then it wasn't declared a pandemic. WHO declared it as public emergency of international concern. After the experts travelled to China , it was declared a pandemic. Then it urged member nations about precautions, testing and treatment. A solidarity trial to find a potential vaccine was formed.

The series of events show a lag on the part of WHO. It took a long time to get on its feet and issue advisories. However, WHO can't be alone blamed. The havoc of coronavirus is unprecedented and everybody was unprepared for it. The withdrawal of funding from US is a major concern. In such time of crisis, international body like WHO has to play a crucial role to ensure quick clearance from the disease.