COVID-19 is no longer a Public Health Emergency of International Concern

At a meeting of the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee on 4 May, 2023, WHO’s Director-General agreed with committee members that COVID-19 is now an established and ongoing health issue, and should no longer be considered a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).

During the meeting, committee members highlighted the high levels of population immunity to SARS-CoV-2, as well as the decrease in COVID-19 related deaths, hospitalizations, and intensive care unit admissions.

During the deliberative session, the Committee members highlighted the decreasing trend in COVID-19 deaths, the decline in COVID-19 related hospitalizations and intensive care unit admissions, and the high levels of population immunity to SARS-CoV-2. The Committee’s position has been evolving over the last several months. While acknowledging the remaining uncertainties posted by potential evolution of SARS-CoV-2, they advised that it is time to transition to long-term management of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The WHO Director-General concurs with the advice offered by the Committee regarding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. He determines that COVID-19 is now an established and ongoing health issue which no longer constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).

SOurce; WHO