PREPSHIELD aims to foster a more holistic and citizen-centric approach to health crisis preparedness and response.

Lessons learned from past health crisis

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on all aspects of life—health, the economy, social systems, and daily routines. Its rapid global spread, unpredictability, and the strain it placed on healthcare systems worldwide exposed the challenges in ensuring inclusive care and support, particularly for vulnerable groups. These populations, often marginalized or underserved, faced heightened risks during the crisis due to barriers in access, communication, and resources. The disproportionate impact on some groups, as well as the lack of information and resources, created so-called non-compliant groups that did not participate in the response to the crisis (for example, by getting vaccinated).

The pandemic underscored the need for a more equitable approach to health crisis management. In response, PREPSHIELD aims to build a more inclusive, people-centred framework that actively involves vulnerable communities, ensuring their needs are prioritized in research, training and decision-making. By learning from past challenges, the initiative strives to strengthen preparedness and response for all, particularly those who are often left behind in times of crisis.

PREPSHIELD stands for PREPAREDNESS FOR SOCIETY IN HEALTH CRISES AND DISASTERS.

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