International Health Regulations

The International Health Regulations (IHR) are a set of global regulations adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2005 to help countries prevent, detect, and respond to public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The IHR are legally binding for all 196 WHO member states but remain open to regular amendment and update, ensuring their currency and relevance to the ongoing evolution of public health threats.

What are the International Health Regulations?

The IHR are a legally binding instrument of international law that outlines the rights and obligations of countries in preventing and responding to public health emergencies. They aim to strengthen global health security by providing a framework for countries to work together to detect, assess, notify, and respond to public health risks and emergencies.

The IHR are based on the principle of collective responsibility and shared commitment to global health security. They require countries to:

• Develop and maintain core capacities for surveillance, detection, and response to public health emergencies.
• Notify WHO of any public health event that may constitute a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).
• Implement measures to prevent and control the spread of disease.
• Cooperate with other countries and WHO in responding to public health emergencies.

Why are the International Health Regulations important?

The IHR are important because they provide a global framework for countries to work together to improve public health security and prevent and respond to pandemics. They help to ensure that countries are prepared to detect and respond to public health emergencies quickly and effectively. The IHR also help to promote transparency and accountability in the global health system.