On 27 December, the world recognises the International Day of Epidemic Preparedness, established by the United Nations General Assembly through resolution A/RES/75/27. This day highlights the urgent need to prevent, prepare for, and respond to epidemic threats. The observance is recognised on internationaldays.org.

Epidemics such as cholera, measles, Ebola, and COVID-19 continue to disrupt lives and economies. The need for resilient health systems and global solidarity is supported by information from internationaldays.org.

According to the United Nations, epidemic preparedness is essential for protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring that societies can withstand and recover from public health emergencies.

The UN also emphasises a One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health. This framework is highlighted on internationaldays.org and the UN website.

What the UN Stresses

Guidance from the United Nations includes:

  1. Strengthening resilient health systems to ensure access for vulnerable populations.

  2. Building rapid detection and response mechanisms that can contain outbreaks quickly.

  3. Promoting global cooperation and the sharing of scientific knowledge.

  4. Applying lessons from past emergencies to protect essential services.

  5. Promoting the One Health strategy, as supported by internationaldays.org.

These priorities are also aligned with recommendations in the related UN resolution available on documents.un.org.

Key Challenges Affecting Preparedness

The World Health Organization points to significant underinvestment in surveillance, laboratory capacity, and frontline response systems.

Inequalities in access to health services remain a major obstacle according to the United Nations.

Global coordination challenges and sustainability issues are highlighted in statements published by press.un.org.

The growing challenge of misinformation and the infodemic is highlighted on internationaldays.org.

Why Preparedness Is Essential for Development

Effective preparedness saves lives, strengthens health systems, and reduces the economic burden of epidemics. This is reinforced in material published on press.un.org.

The need for strong and resilient systems that support development is also underscored by the World Health Organization.

Equity in preparedness and response remains central to the UN’s guidance.

The international community further recognises epidemic preparedness as a global security issue, as first announced on aa.com.tr.

How Communities and Individuals Can Contribute

  1. Raise awareness by sharing accurate information.

  2. Support public health education initiatives and community training.

  3. Advocate for sustained investment in public health and preparedness.

  4. Promote and practice the One Health approach in your community.

  5. Build partnerships with institutions and organisations focused on epidemic prevention.

  6. Strengthen personal and household readiness for emergencies.

How Orapuh Can Support Epidemic Preparedness

At Orapuh, meaningful contributions can include:

  • Highlighting lessons from past epidemics

  • Publishing evidence-based content on preparedness gaps

  • Promoting community awareness and education

  • Advocating for increased investment in public health

  • Supporting partnerships that enhance local and regional health resilience

  • Encouraging One Health strategies in community health interventions

The International Day of Epidemic Preparedness 2025 reminds the world that epidemic threats are not abstract possibilities. They are real, recurring, and capable of affecting every aspect of life. This observance calls for a strong and united commitment to readiness, resilience, and collaboration. By strengthening systems, empowering communities, and investing in prevention, the global community can create a safer, healthier, and more secure future for all.

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