World Health Day 2009 - Better health system responses to disasters

On 7 April 2009, the World Health Day focused on the safety of health facilities and the readiness of health workers who treat those affected by emergencies. Following a number of recent disasters around the world, this year’s focus seems particularly fitting. By ensuring preparedness, it will be possible to reduce the impact of natural and man-made hazards on life, health, property, and environment.


World Health Day 2009 - Safety of health facilities

World Health Day 2009 focused on the safety of health facilities and the readiness of health workers who treat those affected by emergencies. Health centres and staff are critical lifelines for vulnerable people in disasters - treating injuries, preventing illnesses and caring for people’s health needs. Often, already fragile health systems are unable to keep functioning through a disaster, with immediate and future public health consequences.

This year, the WHO and its international partners underscored the importance of investing in health infrastructure that can withstand hazards and serve people in immediate need. They also urged health facilities to implement response systems that can tackle internal emergencies, such as fires, and ensure the continuity of care.

Commissioner Vassiliou marked World Health Day in Kenya

To mark World Health Day, European Commissioner for Health, Ms Androulla Vassiliou visited community health projects in Kenya.

These projects promote social and economic development through poverty alleviation and strengthening health and education.

Commissioner Vassiliou taped a video message recalling the close links between health and productivity and the need to foster good health, especially in vulnerable groups, in particular during this time of economic crisis.

As stated by the first World Health Assembly in 1948, the World Health Day is celebrated to create “awareness of a specific health theme to highlight a priority area of concern for the World Health Organization" (WHO). This year’s focus as particularly relevant since safety of health facilities is essential for a better management of natural and man-made hazards.

However, investing in health infrastructures is a long and constant process rather than just a single day’s effort. When a disaster occurs, it is too late to plan what should have been done before to protect life, health, property, and environment.

For further information

- WHO Press Release

Last modified on May 8 2009.