WHO Urges Risk-Based, Integrated Approach as COVID-19 Activity Rises Globally

The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on all member states to adopt a risk-based, integrated strategy for managing the ongoing COVID-19 situation, following a notable uptick in global SARS-CoV-2 activity since mid-February 2025. The WHO’s latest guidance comes as the test positivity rate has reached 11%, a level not seen since July 2024, and as new variants such as NB.1.8.1 gain prominence among reported cases.

Integrated, Long-Term Management Emphasized

WHO’s updated recommendations stress the importance of embedding COVID-19 management within broader national healthcare and respiratory disease strategies. The organization’s new strategic and operational plan, which supersedes previous preparedness and response frameworks, aims to support countries in the sustained and evidence-based management of COVID-19, MERS, and other emerging coronavirus threats.

Key recommendations for member states include:

• Maintaining robust, multi-source surveillance systems for early detection and variant monitoring, using both sentinel and wastewater surveillance integrated into existing respiratory pathogen monitoring platforms.

• Ensuring continued, equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines, especially for high-risk groups, in line with national immunization strategies and WHO SAGE recommendations.

• Strengthening healthcare delivery systems to provide high-quality clinical management for COVID-19 and Post-COVID-19 Condition (PCC), with scalable care models and stringent infection prevention controls.

• Enhancing risk communication and community engagement to empower individuals, combat misinformation, and support community-led protection efforts.

• Institutionalizing coordination mechanisms at national and subnational levels, aligning them with a One Health approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health.

Vaccination and Surveillance Remain Priorities

Despite a decrease in global COVID-19 vaccination rates, WHO continues to urge countries to prioritize vaccine uptake, particularly among vulnerable populations, and to adapt immunization strategies as the virus evolves2. Surveillance remains critical, as the lack of clear seasonality in SARS-CoV-2 circulation and limited data from some regions make it essential to monitor trends and emerging variants closely.

Standing Recommendations and Future Preparedness

The International Health Regulations (IHR) Standing Recommendations on COVID-19, issued after the expiration of the Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) in May 2023, remain valid through April 2026. WHO encourages countries to align their policies with these recommendations to ensure ongoing vigilance and preparedness for both current and future coronavirus threats.

A Broader Health Security Agenda

The WHO’s approach is part of a broader move to integrate pandemic preparedness and response into long-term health system strengthening, including the management of other respiratory diseases such as influenza. This integrated approach is seen as vital for building resilient health systems capable of addressing both acute and long-term effects of COVID-19 and other infectious hazards.

“WHO recommends that countries remain vigilant, adapt to evolving epidemiological trends, and leverage COVID-19 management strategies to strengthen systems for all respiratory disease threats,” the organization stated in its latest update.

Disclaimer:
This article is based on information from the World Health Organization and recent news reports as of May 29, 2025. COVID-19 guidance may evolve as new data emerges. For the latest health advice and national guidelines, consult official sources and healthcare professionals.