2023-03-28-世界卫生组织-Virtual_Press_conference_on_COVID-19_and_other_global_health_issues_transcript_-_29_March_2023_13页_136kb

Summary Analysis

The WHO virtual press conference on 29 March 2023 focused on global health issues, including the Marburg virus disease outbreaks in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the One Health approach, and humanitarian efforts. Key points are summarized below:

• Marburg Virus Outbreaks: The Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, detailed outbreaks with cases in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania. In Equatorial Guinea, nine cases and seven deaths were reported, with possible wider transmission; Tanzania had eight cases and five deaths. WHO supported response efforts, including case finding, clinical care, and vaccine trials for four vaccine candidates, which are ready for discussion in a workshop. Trials aim to prevent future cases, with doses available for targeted ring vaccination rather than population-wide immunization.

• One Health Approach: Tedros emphasized a collaborative "One Health" strategy, integrating human, animal, and environmental health to prevent disease spillovers, as seen in historical outbreaks like SARS and Ebola. This approach was reinforced during a quadripartite meeting, with a draft implementation guide endorsed.

• Tommaso Urbani's Tribute: Tommaso Urbani, son of Dr. Carlo Urbani—the WHO official credited with identifying SARS—spoke about his father's legacy, highlighting dedication to public health and humanitarian work. He congratulated WHO on its 75th anniversary and mentioned the opening of a Carlo Urbani Museum to promote health awareness.

• COVID-19 Pandemic: Director Van Kerkhove updated on COVID-19, noting it remains a global emergency with rising cases in some regions. The virus, particularly Omicron sublineages, continues evolving, reducing severe impacts but maintaining risks among unvaccinated or high-risk groups. WHO urged vaccination for over-60s and those with underlying conditions to mitigate threats.

• Other Topics: Questions covered Burundi's unconfirmed cases, WHO's response to earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria (where $45 million of $85 million requested has been secured), and a debate on Marburg vaccine data validity and testing strategies. One health-related point included emerging bat viruses as potential threats.

The conference underscored WHO's commitment to global health emergencies, with Director Ryan emphasizing the shift from acute care to long-term recovery in crises like earthquakes. Overall, progress in One Health and vaccine development is ongoing, but vigilance and international cooperation are critical.