:<br><br>"The Role of WHO: Continuing to Urge China to Share Data Five Years After COVID-19

**The Role of WHO: Continuing to Urge China to Share Data Five Years After COVID-19**

As we mark the five-year anniversary of the emergence of COVID-19, the World Health Organization (WHO) reflects on its ongoing efforts to understand and combat the disease. The UN agency's country office in China received a media statement from the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission on December 31, 2019, reporting cases of "viral pneumonia" in the city. Little did we know that this would be just the beginning of a global pandemic that would shape our lives and world.

**A Global Pandemic: The Numbers Speak**

Fast-forward to today, and the numbers are staggering: over 777 million confirmed cases and more than seven million deaths worldwide. The SARS-CoV-2 virus has left an indelible mark on human history, and its impact is still being felt.

**The Importance of Data Sharing in Pandemic Preparedness**

However, amidst this chaos, there remains a crucial issue that requires our attention: the sharing of data and access to understanding the origins of COVID-19. WHO continues to urge China to share vital information, emphasizing that transparency, cooperation, and open communication are essential for preventing and preparing for future epidemics and pandemics.

**A Moral Imperative: Transparency is Key**

"This is a moral and scientific imperative," says WHO. "Without transparency, sharing, and cooperation among countries, the world cannot adequately prevent and prepare for future epidemics and pandemics." In other words, sharing data is not just a technical requirement; it's a moral obligation to protect global health.

**A Timeline of WHO's Response**

To mark this significant milestone, WHO has published an interactive timeline of its response to COVID-19. From January 1, 2020, when staff initiated emergency procedures, to the publication of comprehensive guidance for countries and the development of the first SARS-CoV-2 laboratory test, the agency has worked tirelessly to respond to the pandemic.

**A Tribute to Healthcare Heroes**

As we reflect on the past five years, WHO honors the lives lost to COVID-19 and recognizes those who continue to suffer from long-term effects. The agency also expresses gratitude to healthcare workers "who sacrificed so much to care for us, and commit to learning from COVID-19 to build a healthier tomorrow."

**Looking Ahead: Lessons Learned**

As we move forward, it's essential that we learn from the past and apply these lessons to future challenges. WHO is committed to continuing its efforts in monitoring and responding to emerging threats, ensuring that the world is better equipped to face future pandemics.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Data Sharing and Cooperation**

In conclusion, as we mark this significant milestone, let us not forget the importance of data sharing and cooperation in preventing future epidemics and pandemics. It's time for China to share vital information, allowing us to move forward with a deeper understanding of COVID-19's origins.

**The Way Forward: Navigating Complexities**

As we navigate the complexities of global health governance, it's essential that we balance the need for open communication with the reality of competing interests and political dynamics. By doing so, we can ensure that future pandemics are met with a unified and robust response.

**Keywords:** WHO, COVID-19, data sharing, global health governance, pandemic preparedness

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.