I have initiated a thorough review of the allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse in the Ebola response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as broader protection issues in health emergency response settings.
Every week we’re adding approximately two million COVID-19 cases and we passed the tragic milestone of one million deaths this week. What we’ve learned in every region of the world is that with good leadership and quick responsive action from the general population, it’s never too late to turn the tide.
This week we were pleased that countries stepped up and announced $1 billion US dollars of new funding for the ACT-Accelerator, which is driving progress on diagnostics, treatment and vaccines.
We have finalized approval for a second rapid test to be granted Emergency Use Listing.
We have published a call for expressions of interest for manufacturers of COVID-19 Vaccines – to apply for approval for prequalification and/or Emergency Use Listing.
168 countries have now joined COVAX, which sends a very powerful message of solidarity across the world that we’re uniting to end this pandemic for the sake of all humankind.
The Pan American Health Organization are teaming up with the International Olympic Committee and National Olympic Committees in Brazil, Colombia, Argentina and Mexico to send out health messaging on COVID-19 through the #HealthyTogether campaign. Over 45 Olympic athletes are supporting WHO to protect people from COVID-19 and give them tips on how to stay mentally and physically healthy.