Introduce yourself
International Health Regulations are international legal frameworks that were established in order to improve public health internationally. World Health Organization first adopted these regulations in 1969. Since then, they have gone through several revisions. The most recent one was made in 2005. IHR is designed to control and prevent the spread of diseases internationally, as well as to provide public health responses. It does so without interfering with trade and international traffic. In this article, we explore the implications, challenges and progress of IHR for the Indian context.
History
1. Origin of International Health Regulations
- 1969 AdoptionIHR’s initial version was designed to target specific infections.
- The 2005 RevisionThe scope of the program was expanded to include diseases that are not communicable and preparedness in case of health emergencies were emphasized.
2. India’s commitment
- India, as a WHO member since its inception, has adhered to IHR Standards.
The International Health Regulations: Key components
1. Notice Obligations
- WHO must be notified of all events that could constitute an international public health crisis (PHEIC).
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartIndia alerted the WHO about an outbreak of COVID-19 in Wuhan, China, by 2020.
2. Core Capacities
- The countries should develop public health capabilities to assess health risks, detect them, communicate about them, and take action.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartEstablishing surveillance and laboratory systems, especially in airports.
3. Risk Assessment
- In consultation with WHO experts, countries are required to evaluate the potential risks of threats to public health.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartIndia’s evaluation of the Ebola outbreak that occurred in West Africa during 2014.
IHR and the Indian Context
1. Public Health Security
- IHR focuses on a number of public health issues, including communicable disease, infectious diseases that are emerging, and global threats to health.
- ImpactBuilds a frame for coordinated responses.
2. Economic Stability
- Health emergencies can impact trade and travel in a significant way.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartCOVID-19 was contained, which not only reduced the health effects but also safeguarded India’s interests.
3. Global Collaboration
- IHR encourages international co-operation in combating health threats.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartIndia’s cooperation with its neighbors during times of health emergency, such as outbreaks suspected to be caused by the Zika virus.
4. Preparedness and response
- Make sure that the countries can prevent and effectively respond to any health emergency.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartIndia’s response to Nipah outbreak by enhancing surveillance and engaging the community
The challenges of implementing IHR in India
1. Infrastructure constraints
- The lack of adequate healthcare in rural areas makes it difficult to monitor and respond effectively to disease.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartIn rural India, basic health care facilities are lacking. This can cause delays in reporting potential illnesses.
2. Resources Allocation
- For disease prevention and response, it is essential to have adequate financial and human resources.
- ImpactLack of funding can affect the training and equipment required by skilled professionals in health care.
3. Increasing Awareness and Training
- It is important that health officials are trained continuously to ensure they understand IHR and can implement it effectively.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartAlthough many states offer training, the level of awareness amongst citizens is still low.
4. Politics and Governance
- Effective implementation requires coordination between different government levels and sectors.
- ImpactIneffective health risk management can be caused by a lack of political motivation.
Latest Developments Relevant to India in IHR
1. Pandemic response to COVID-19
- WHO was prompted by the pandemic to implement IHR as a way to deal with crisis.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartIndia’s response — including border checks, lockdowns and airport health screenings — demonstrates adherence to IHR.
2. Strengthening Surveillance System
- After the pandemic, initiatives for improved surveillance systems were implemented.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartThe Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme facilitates the timely collection of data and identification of cases.
3. International Organizations for Collaboration
- India benefited by leveraging global expertise through strengthened partnerships with entities such as the CDC, UNICEF, and others.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartCollaboration during COVID-19 vaccination campaign.
India’s Global Health Governance Role
1. Leadership in South Asia
- India has played a major role in South Asia’s initiatives to improve health care governance.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartLeveraging regional platforms such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation for collaborative action in health.
2. Contribution to WHO activities
- India actively participates in the shaping of global health policy through WHO initiatives.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartIndia’s participation in Global Health Security Agenda.
3. Capacity building
- India supports its neighbors through initiatives to build their capacity.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartHealth professionals from smaller countries can benefit from training programs.
The Future of IHR Implementation In India
1. Building a Stronger Healthcare Infrastructure
- IHR can only be implemented if there is investment made in the healthcare system, especially in rural areas.
2. Regulatory Enhancement
- Processes can be simplified by creating specific legal frameworks for IHR to be enforced within national laws.
3. Public Awareness
- Engagement in the community and awareness of public health issues encourages proactive participation.
4. Investment in Research and Technology
- Focus on R&D for disease prevention, rapid response, and surveillance systems.
5. Global Cooperation
- Collaboration with international bodies of health for the sharing of knowledge and training.
The conclusion of the article is:
International Health Regulations (IHR) play an important role in safeguarding the global security of health. India is no exception, with its diverse geography and large population. In India, strengthening IHR can help improve preparedness for and responses to emergencies in the health sector. This will ultimately lead to a more healthy global community.
FAQs
1. What is the International Health Regulations (IHR)?
The International Health Regulations is a framework of laws established by WHO to enhance global health security, through prevention measures and coordinated responses against health threats.
2. What is India’s compliance with IHR?
India adheres to IHR, by setting up surveillance systems, training healthcare professionals and coordinating health emergencies with WHO, neighboring countries and other nations.
3. What are the challenges India faces in implementing IHR
India is facing challenges, such as a limited healthcare infrastructure and resource allocation problems, lack of knowledge, and a need for political commitment for implementation.
4. What was India’s contribution to the COVID-19 Pandemic as managed by IHR?
India complied with IHR regulations, by installing lockdowns, increasing border controls and improving health screenings. They also informed WHO about the status of the outbreak.
5. What can India do to improve the implementation of IHR in India?
India can enhance its IHR by enhancing healthcare infrastructure and public awareness. It could also strengthen regulatory frameworks as well as foster global collaboration.
This paper aims at providing an overview of the International Health Regulations and their implications in India. It also provides a basis for further discussion.
