“Exercise Crystal” – World Health Organization Conducts Pandemic Simulation Involving 31 Countries
By Danielle
The World Health Organization conducted a simulation exercise to “test their readiness for the next pandemic.”
31 countries and areas from across the Western Pacific participated in Exercise Crystal.
“Simulations offer a much-needed opportunity to evaluate, refine and iron out coordination challenges and practise teamwork before a real crisis hits,” the WHO stated.
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The latest iteration of IHR Exercise Crystal enabled them to assess their preparedness and practise procedures for cross-border and inter-agency responses to emerging health threats.
Representatives from the participating countries and areas tested their communication capacities − as outlined in the International Health Regulations (IHR) − by responding in real time to incoming information about a fictitious novel respiratory illness. The simulation exercise offered an opportunity for focal points to practise verifying and sharing information with WHO, as well as assessing public health risks and coordinating with a range of sectors.