DFGAHO leads global efforts in pandemic and epidemic preparedness, a cornerstone of its mission to safeguard population health across borders. Preparedness involves the comprehensive planning and capacity-building necessary to detect, contain, and manage infectious disease threats before they escalate into regional or global crises. This includes zoonotic diseases, novel viruses, and re-emerging pathogens that can rapidly overwhelm national health systems.
To support countries, DFGAHO establishes early warning and surveillance systems, strengthens laboratory networks, and facilitates transparent disease reporting under international agreements. It trains healthcare workers in outbreak recognition and containment protocols, develops national and regional preparedness plans, and promotes investment in core public health capacities such as rapid diagnostics, contact tracing, and quarantine management.
DFGAHO also coordinates cross-border simulation exercises and supports the development of emergency stockpiles—including personal protective equipment (PPE), antiviral medications, and critical vaccines. By fostering international cooperation and knowledge-sharing, DFGAHO ensures that even low-resource countries are not left behind in the event of global health threats.
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of preparedness, not only in health systems but in leadership, data transparency, and global solidarity. DFGAHO continues to refine its frameworks based on emerging challenges, reinforcing the idea that preparedness is not a luxury, but an essential investment in national and global security.