Global Health NOW: 3 Keys to Outbreak Preparedness in the Climate Change Era
Chikwe Ihekweazu, director general of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control

“…To wake up from our paralysis and prepare for the impact of climate change on infectious disease outbreak preparedness and response, there are 3 critical steps I believe we must all take. First, we have to acknowledge the problem and recognize that no nation will be spared. … Next, we have to ensure that [national public health institutes (NPHIs)] not only can do great surveillance, but great science. … Finally, we must develop capacities for outbreak response from the grassroots to the global level. … Clearly, it is time we invest in research to better understand climate change and infectious disease and develop responsible policies…” (9/27).