The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently introduced a new global framework designed to enhance the pathogen origin investigations, with significant contributions from Indian scientists.
Overview of the Framework
- Developed by: Scientific Advisory Group for the Origins of Novel Pathogens (SAGO). SAGO was established by WHO in 2021 and manly consists of independent experts from around the world.
- Purpose: To streamline the investigation of the origins of novel and re-emerging pathogens
Key Principles:
- International Health Regulations (IHR): Adopted by WHO in 2005, IHR is a legally binding framework designed to provide a public health response to the international spread of diseases.
- One Health Approach: An integrated approach to optimize the health of people, animals, and ecosystems.
Significance of the Framework:
Risk Management:
- Aims to address the risks associated with known pathogens (e.g., Ebola, Nipah) and novel pathogens with epidemic or pandemic potential (e.g., SARS-CoV-1).
- Critical for preventing and containing global health crises.
Investigative Process:
- Provides a structured approach for early epidemiological studies, human disease pattern research, and laboratory safety protocols.
- Designed to initiate investigations immediately upon outbreak detection.
- Helps in confirming or excluding unintentional laboratory breaches.
Key Elements of the Framework:
Technical Guidance:
- Early epidemiological studies
- Research into human disease patterns
- Laboratory safety protocols
Multidisciplinary Teams:
- Involves experts in clinical medicine, microbiology, epidemiology, veterinary science, and data science.
- Collaboration with international organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
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Frequently Asked Question:
What is the purpose of WHO’s new global framework for pathogen origin investigations?
The framework aims to streamline the investigation of novel and re-emerging pathogen origins to prevent future pandemics.
Who developed the global framework for pathogen investigations?
The framework was developed by the Scientific Advisory Group for the Origins of Novel Pathogens (SAGO), established by WHO.
What is the One Health approach in the WHO framework?
The One Health approach integrates the health of people, animals, and ecosystems to optimize overall health and prevent disease.
What types of pathogens does the framework focus on?
It focuses on known pathogens like Ebola and Nipah, as well as novel pathogens with epidemic or pandemic potential, such as SARS-CoV-1.
What role do multidisciplinary teams play in the framework?
Multidisciplinary teams consisting of clinical, microbiology, epidemiology, and veterinary experts collaborate to ensure effective pathogen origin investigations.