Need for effective detection and early warnings for epidemic and pandemic preparedness planning in the context of multi-hazards: Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic

This paper aims to identify key elements and stages of an effective epidemic and pandemic early warning (EW) and response system. Further, the paper analyses inter-connections of the elements of the early warning system, focusing on the COVID-19 and multi-hazard context. The need for effective early detection and timely surveillance for a robust pandemic and epidemic early warning and preparedness has been widely discussed amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, which suddenly erupted worldwide.

According to the paper, an effective detection process and early warning dissemination is key to the epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response. Early detection and warning appeared to be the most critical point of any epidemic and pandemic event. The Covid-19 pandemic provides critical testimony to analyses of the functionality of scientifically designed detection and EW processes that are critical in strengthening preparedness and response capabilities.