ISLAMABAD: The government has launched a new National Action Plan for Health Security (2024-28), which will help strengthen the capacity of national and provincial health systems to effectively prevent, detect and respond to evolving public health emergencies.

National Action Plan for Health Security (2024-28) was presented to stakeholders at an event organised by the Ministry of National Health Services. Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Health Dr Malik Mukhtar Ahmad, Federal Health Secretary Nadeem Mahbub, Adviser to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister on Health Ihtisham Ali; and Gilgit Baltistan Health Minister Raja Azam Khan joined the Deputy British High Commissioner to Pakistan Andrew Dalgleish to launch and disseminate the action plan.

Dr Malik Mukhtar said: “Operational plans under the National Action Plan for Health Security (2024-28) will help the federal and provincial governments to prioritise interventions and decisions for improved technical capacities in tackling emergencies and disasters. The plan also vows to strengthen health security in Pakistan by integrating human, animal, and environmental health through the One Health approach.”

Deputy British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Andrew Dalgleish, said: “The National Action Plan for Health Security (2024-28) recognises the need for improved health security in Pakistan, while also strengthening primary health services, emergency coordination, disease surveillance and response systems. I’m proud that the UK is playing such an active role in supporting Pakistan build a resilient health system.”

Federal Health Secretary Nadeem Mahbub said: “The event emphasises on the need for synchronised efforts between federal and provincial stakeholders. This comprehensive approach is necessary to address both immediate and long-term public health risks for Pakistan.”

WHO Representative said: “WHO lauds the development of Pakistan’s National Action Plan for Health Security (2024-28), which focuses a comprehensive One Health approach to strengthen preparedness and response to health emergencies. WHO remains committed to assisting Pakistan in aligning its priorities with International Health Regulations.”

Published in Dawn, November 22th, 2024