New patterns of viral emergence and spread are being driven by ecologic and sociologic changes, such as climate change, migration of vector species to new areas, changing interactions between people and animals, increasing connectivity between communities, more and faster travel, urbanization, and political instability and conflict. Our preparations for epidemics must keep pace with such changes. Declaring a state of emergency is the World Health Organization’s judgement call.Alot of people criticize WHO for being too quick to declare a public health emergency of international concern, as many people did at the time of the 2009 influenza pandemic.Instead,we should applaud quick and decisive public health action, which will often prevent a true crisis. Action comes with risk, but we should never underestimate the risk of inaction.
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