WHO chief calls for private sector to be involved to ensure that countries can access life-saving products

In his daily briefing to the press on Friday, World Health Organization (WHO) chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, warned that supplies of medicine are at risk of disruption due to the epidemic, given that China – the worst hit nation so far – is a major producer of pharmaceutical ingredients.

So far, no imminent specific shortages have been identified, and manufacturing has resumed in most parts of China, but the private sector needs to be involved, to ensure that countries can access life-saving products, said Tedros.

“You’ve heard me talk about the market failure for personal protective equipment. We look forward to businesses stepping up to play their part. We need you”.

The WHO chief announced that the agency is working with the World Economic Forum to engage companies around the world. Earlier this week, he spoke to more than 200 CEOs, to discuss ways that they can protect their staff and customers, ensure business continuity, and contribute to the response.

Via WHO