The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a new COVID-19 outbreak in China as a global health emergency, raising concerns about its potential to spread to countries with weaker health systems.
Announcing the decision in Geneva, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that the declaration, officially termed a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), is aimed at preventing further global transmission and should not be seen as a reflection of a lack of confidence in China’s response to the outbreak.
“Our greatest concern is the potential for the virus to spread to countries with weaker health systems,” Dr. Tedros said.
“This declaration is not a vote of no confidence in China. WHO remains confident in China’s ability to manage the outbreak.”
The decision followed a near-unanimous recommendation from WHO’s emergency committee, chaired by Didier Houssin, which convened to evaluate the situation.
This marks the sixth use of the PHEIC designation since its introduction 15 years ago.
It triggers a coordinated international response, including efforts to accelerate vaccine and drug development, strengthen health systems, and combat misinformation.
🚨A FRESH LOCKDOWN IS LOADING
China is facing a new virus outbreak with the HMPV spreading rapidly, causing flu-like and COVID-19-like symptoms.
Some are asking, “Is this another COVID-19?” or “Should we start panicking?”
Relax, I will break everything down…🧵 pic.twitter.com/lyuwhamesK
— Asexual Doctor (@Choji_ES) January 6, 2025
