Implementation Guidance
WHO supports countries in strengthening systematic, context-specific and evidence-informed decision-making that maximize health benefits of PHSM while reducing unintended negative consequences for individuals, societies and economies during outbreaks with epidemic and pandemic potential.
Key lessons learned during recent health emergencies include that:
- the effectiveness of PHSM is influenced by factors such as the stringency, timing, duration and combination of measures;
- implementation of a swift and stringent combination of PHSM at the beginning of the emergency saves lives and livelihoods;
- the effectiveness of PHSM hinges on contextual factors, including epidemiological patterns, cultural values and behavioural patterns. These need to be considered during both the implementation and evaluation of PHSM; and
- decision-making for PHSM is a complex process that should prioritize the principles of equity and community involvement and the consideration of trade-offs between costs and benefits.
Photo credit: WHO/Sam Bradd
PHSM decision support tool
WHO is developing a country support tool to guide decision-makers through the complexities of formulating, implementing and adjusting PHSM policies during health emergencies.
The tool will aim to facilitate systematic consideration of numerous factors that influence effective PHSM implementation and adjustment during health emergencies, such as epidemiological patterns, the availability of medical countermeasures, health system capacity and the socioeconomic context.