International Day of Epidemic Preparedness

International Day of Epidemic Preparedness is observed annually on December 27. This day highlights the importance of preventing, detecting, and responding to infectious disease outbreaks through global cooperation and resilient health systems. ¹

History of International Day of Epidemic Preparedness

The United Nations General Assembly officially designated this day in December 2020 through Resolution 75/27. The initiative was spearheaded by Vietnam and supported by several other nations in response to the devastating global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The crisis revealed significant gaps in international health security and demonstrated that the world was largely unprepared for a fast-moving, high-consequence biological threat.

By establishing this observance, the international community committed to learning from past health emergencies like Ebola, SARS, and Zika. The goal was to ensure that the lessons of the 2020 pandemic would not be forgotten as the immediate crisis subsided. The first observance took place on December 27, 2020, serving as a permanent reminder that the next major outbreak is a question of “when” rather than “if,” requiring continuous investment in public health infrastructure.

Why is International Day of Epidemic Preparedness important?

This day serves as a critical call to action for governments to prioritize long-term funding for medical research and emergency response logistics. Epidemics do not respect national borders, and a weakness in one country’s health system can threaten the safety of the entire planet. By focusing on preparedness, nations can develop the tools needed to stop local outbreaks from becoming global pandemics, which protects both human lives and the global economy.

Furthermore, the observance emphasizes the “One Health” approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Most emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic, meaning they jump from animals to humans. Strengthening surveillance at these intersection points allows for earlier detection. This proactive stance is essential for protecting vulnerable populations who often lack access to vaccines, clean water, and adequate medical facilities during a crisis.

• Strong public health systems prevent local outbreaks from spiraling into global crises
• Investment in diagnostic labs ensures that new viruses are identified quickly
• Global cooperation allows for the fair and rapid distribution of vaccines and medicine
• Education helps the public understand how to reduce the spread of disease through hygiene
• Preparedness planning reduces the long-term economic damage caused by lockdowns

How to Observe International Day of Epidemic Preparedness

Observing this day primarily involves education and advocacy at both the community and governmental levels. Individuals can participate by staying informed about current health guidelines and supporting organizations that work on global health security. Many health agencies use this date to release reports on current readiness levels and to conduct simulation exercises that test how well hospitals and emergency services can handle a sudden influx of patients.

At a personal level, people can practice and promote basic hygiene habits that are effective against many types of infectious diseases. This includes maintaining up-to-date vaccinations and learning about the symptoms of emerging illnesses. In the professional sphere, businesses and schools can review their emergency protocols to ensure they have plans in place for remote work or social distancing if a new health threat arises. Advocacy for sustained public health funding is also a key component of the day’s activities.

• Research the latest information from the World Health Organization on global health threats
• Review personal and family vaccination records to ensure they are current
• Share factual information about disease prevention on social media platforms
• Support local health departments by participating in public health surveys or workshops
• Practice consistent handwashing and respiratory etiquette to protect those around you

International Day of Epidemic Preparedness Dates Table

1. https://www.un.org/en/observances/epidemic-preparedness-day[↩]