Global Health Preparedness: Lessons from COVID-19 and Future Threats

Abstract

Emerging infectious diseases are becoming an increasing threat to global health, which has been accelerated by globalization, climate change, and the increase in human-animal interactions. The COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the vulnerabilities of healthcare systems worldwide, showing critical gaps in surveillance, healthcare infrastructure, and international cooperation. This review seeks to expound on the lessons learned from COVID-19, with an emphasis on genomic surveillance, equitable distribution of vaccines, and strong public health policies; on the other hand, it examines the rise of pathogens such as Ebola and Zika as well as the evolving challenges posed to pandemic preparedness. Addressing these issues will greatly benefit from the application of a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach, thus linking scientific advancement, ethical arena, and policy intervention for the development of an enhanced global health security. Future preparedness must ensure that early detection and rapid response mechanisms are accompanied by equitable access to healthcare in order to limit the impact of emerging pathogens