The upcoming El Niño event, a natural climate phenomenon, poses significant health risks globally, including extreme heat, drought, flooding, wildfires, and severe storms. These events can lead to heat-related illnesses, waterborne and vector-borne diseases, malnutrition, mental health issues, and disruptions to essential health services. As climate-related health risks escalate, preparedness and anticipatory action are crucial. The WHO's EPI-WIN webinar, 'Preparing for El Niño and Climate-Related Health Risks: Global Insights and Country Experiences,' aims to address these challenges. The event will bring together experts and partners to discuss global health risks associated with El Niño, share practical experiences and good practices, and explore strategies for strengthening resilience and reducing health impacts. The webinar's objectives include highlighting priority public health risks, discussing actions for emergency preparedness and anticipatory action, and promoting collaboration across sectors to mitigate health risks. The agenda features speakers from the WHO, including Dr. Teresa Zakaria and Dr. Heather Carlson, who will present a global risk analysis of El Niño and health. Dr. Alex Camacho will discuss the accelerator for health sector operational readiness ahead of the 2026-2027 El Niño, and Mr. Alexandre Robert will share examples from the Ngouri district hospital in the Lake Chad Basin, demonstrating climate resilience and environmental sustainability. The webinar will also include a Q&A session and closing remarks by Mr. Altaf Musani, Director of Humanitarian and Disaster Management at the WHO headquarters. This event is a crucial step in preparing for the health impacts of El Niño and climate change, emphasizing the need for global collaboration and proactive measures to safeguard public health.
/country-readiness-strengthening-(crs)/community-readiness-and-resilience-(crr)/158726.tmb-1200v.jpg?sfvrsn=842b5d0c_1)
