On 7 December 2020 high level representatives from the French government and WHO gathered virtually for their annual strategic dialogue to take stock of collaboration during the year 2020 and to discuss key joint priorities for collaboration for 2021. The objective of the meeting was to agree on specific ways to enhance cooperation and a road map around key areas:… Read More

WHO’s new laboratory protocol entitled “Global protocol for measuring fatty acid profiles of foods with emphasis on monitoring trans fats originated from partially hydrogenated oils” provides a globally harmonized method to measure trans fats in foods. It will enable countries to assess the levels of trans-fatty acids (TFA) in their food supply to understand key sources of TFA in their… Read More

At the 73rd Session of the World Health Assembly, Member States overwhelmingly endorsed a resolution calling for urgent action on meningitis prevention and control through the implementation of a bold, comprehensive global roadmap to defeat meningitis by 2030. Developed under WHO leadership, through extensive and broad consultation, this global roadmap paves the way for the implementation of multidisciplinary, integrated interventions… Read More

The sixth meeting of the Emergency Committee convened by the WHO Director-General under the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR) regarding the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) took place on Thursday, 14 January 2021 from 12:15 to 16:45 Geneva time (CEST).  Proceedings of the meeting Members and Advisors of the Emergency Committee were convened by videoconference.  The Director-General welcomed the Committee, expressed the need for global solidarity in… Read More

Honorable Chair, Excellencies, Director-General, Ladies and Gentlemen Thank you once again for the opportunity to provide you with an update on the work of the Review Committee on the Functioning of the International Health Regulations (2005) during COVID-19. As you know, this Committee was convened by the Director-General on 8 September 2020, in line with World Health Assembly Resolution WHA73.1.… Read More

Product type: All in vitro diagnostic medical devices (IVDs) for detection of SARS-CoV-2 Date: 18 January 2021                                                                    WHO-identifier: 2021/01, version 1   Target audience: Laboratory professionals and users of IVDs.   Purpose of this notice: To request that IVD users monitor mutations of SARS-CoV-2 and their impact on diagnosis.  Description of the problem:  Following the detection of SARS-CoV-2 variants containing mutations, including SARS-CoV-2 VOC 202012/01, and SARS-CoV-2 501Y.V2, WHO reminds users of IVDs to monitor detection rates for SARS-CoV-2 at their site.   IVD users should routinely review test results to detect unexpected increases or decreases in… Read More