India’s Efforts in National Pandemic Preparedness Plan

India has taken significant strides in its efforts to prepare for future respiratory pandemics through the development of the National Pandemic Preparedness Plan for Respiratory Viruses using a multisectoral approach.

Regional Workshop on PRET Initiative

Preceding the national effort, a regional workshop on the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative was organized by WHO’s South-East Asia Regional Office on October 12-13, 2023. The workshop aimed to facilitate pandemic planning efficiency for countries in the region, recognizing that the same capacities and capabilities can be leveraged and applied for groups of pathogens based on their mode of transmission.

Operationalization of PRET Initiative in India

Subsequently, on 8-9 December 2023, the Ministry of Health and Welfare of the Government of India, in collaboration with the WHO country office India, operationalized the PRET initiative through a National Consultative Workshop on the “National Pandemic Preparedness Plan for Respiratory Viruses.”

Objective of the Workshop

Attended by senior officials from various national and state-level entities, including the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Disaster Management Cell, and academic institutions, the workshop aimed to consolidate expertise and insights on the respiratory pandemic planning in the region.

Introduction of PRET Initiative

During the workshop, WHO introduced the PRET initiative, shedding light on its significance and utility in addressing respiratory pandemic pathogen threats. The focus was on collaborative surveillance and its integration with the Strategic Framework for Action for Strengthening Surveillance, Risk Assessment, and Field Epidemiology in the WHO South-East Asia Region.

Outcomes of the Workshop

The two-day event provided a platform for participants to share valuable insights and expertise to refine the National Preparedness and Response Plan for Respiratory Viruses. A notable outcome was the consolidation of recommendations from the expert panel, culminating in the finalization of the content framework by the participants.

FAQ

What was the objective of the workshop?

The workshop aimed to consolidate expertise and insights on the respiratory pandemic planning in the region.

When was the regional workshop on the PRET initiative organized?

The regional workshop on the PRET initiative was organized on October 12-13, 2023.

What was the outcome of the workshop?

The event provided a platform for participants to refine the National Preparedness and Response Plan for Respiratory Viruses, culminating in the finalization of the content framework.

Conclusion

This comprehensive approach underscores India’s commitment to proactively address and mitigate the impact of future respiratory pandemics.