Why Prevention Matters

Why Prevention Matters

Targets upstream risks across sectors

A strategic and cost-effective investment

Enables faster, more effective response

Effective prevention requires reducing risks like AMR at their source by addressing key drivers such as immunization gaps, environmental degradation, and unsafe water systems. These upstream threats are often shaped by non-health sectors—such as agriculture, veterinary services, and urban planning—to mitigate how threats may emerge in human populations, and demand integrated One Health and climate-sensitive approaches.

Health emergencies can quickly reverse years of progress—overwhelming health systems, disrupting economies, and deepening inequalities. Proactively managing risks is not only more cost-effective than responding to them—it is essential for saving lives and protecting development gains. Prevention is a core objective of the International Health Regulations, which emphasize proactive measures to reduce the likelihood and impact of public health threats before they escalate into crises.

Investing in prevention also strengthens preparedness and accelerates response. Core capacities such as surveillance, laboratory systems, and trained workforce enable early detection and timely action. Anticipating future needs—including medical countermeasures, health system surge capacity, and scalable social protection—ensures systems are ready to respond effectively without relying on costly, improvised solutions.