Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak

Since 2 January 2020, the three levels of WHO (China country office, Regional Office for the Western Pacific and headquarters) have been working together to respond to this outbreak of COVID-19. On 30 January, WHO declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). On 11 March, WHO Director General characterized COVID-19 as a pandemic.

• Increasing understanding of the disease: WHO is constantly analysing data as we receive it and working closely with global experts on a range of topics. WHO is proposing specific studies to better understand transmission, risk factors, and the source of the infection. 
• Communicating with the public on how to protect themselves and others, especially the vulnerable and those at highest risk.
• Keeping countries and the general public informed: Providing updated information through the International Health Regulations (2005), daily situation reports and dashboards displaying real-time data.
• Coordinating with partners: WHO is working with our network of partners including other UN and development agencies, Emergency Medical Teams, the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) and donor agencies.
• Helping countries prepare: WHO is working closely with countries to help them prepare for the rapid detection and response to cases, clusters and community transmission including sending supplies, providing technical expertise and training.