In a pandemic, a specific vaccine will have to be rapidly produced to vaccinate people against the new virus. Such a vaccine, like all biological medical products, has to be checked for safety and efficacy (that is, does it work as claimed by the manufacturer) and approved for use. Usually this process takes several months but during a pandemic it must be done in a matter of days or at most, weeks. Countries receiving vaccine are responsible for the safety of their citizens and must make very quick decisions on whether to grant a licence, ask for more data or reject the application for a licence.
The Regulatory Capacity Building Outcome is defined as “countries with weak or no regulatory capacity will be able to regulate influenza products including vaccines, antivirals and diagnostics, and to accelerate national approval of these commodities in case of an influenza pandemic”. This Outcome is articulated across three Outputs, and seven Key Deliverables. Objectives to be achieved by 2016 will be measured against detailed global level indicators of success.
WHO’s Zika app aims to provide essential information on Zika virus disease and its suspected complications. Designed primarily for health care workers and responders, the app can also be a source of real-time information for the general public. Download and use the app is on IOS or android platforms and have easy-to-use information at your fingertips. In addition to information on on Zika virus diseases, microcephaly and other suspected complications, you can download WHO’s technical guidance and other useful resources, follow ongoing Zika related-research and development, stay updated about the latest news, and follow the international response to Zika. New content, including trainings will be added to the app in weeks to come.
Major epidemics in the 21st century highlight the need for a system to quickly transform scientific knowledge into action on the ground. Knowledge that is understandable and actionable is essential to mounting an effective response to save lives, minimize illness and to prevent unnecessary damage to societies and economies.