Pandemic and health emergencies

Health emergencies and pandemics, both recent and in the past, have exposed deep inequities and vulnerabilities in health systems worldwide. These crises impact physical and mental health through the rapid spread of infectious diseases, overwhelming healthcare systems, disrupting essential services, and causing socio-economic instability. Women, newborns, children, and adolescents are particularly vulnerable due to their unique health and developmental needs, making them disproportionately affected in times of crisis. 

However, there are opportunities to strengthen health systems and build resilience through targeted policies and investments. Co-financing mechanisms, such as pandemic preparedness funds and universal health coverage schemes, can ensure that essential health services continue to be available during crises, protecting the health and well-being of women, newborns children, and adolescents. PMNCH advocates for reliable and policy-relevant information, including scientific evidence complemented by best practices, to prioritize WCAH in emergency preparedness and response efforts. It is crucial that women, children, and adolescents are central to pandemic and emergency response strategies and that their voices are included in decision-making processes. By investing in resilient health systems, we can better protect the progress of women’s, newborns’, children’s and adolescents’ health and ensure equitable responses to future health emergencies.