The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a new strategic plan aimed at managing threats posed by coronaviruses, including COVID-19 and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). This initiative represents the first unified approach to address various coronavirus-related health risks, transitioning from a pandemic emergency response to a more sustainable management framework.
The plan, titled Strategic Plan for Coronavirus Disease Threat Management: Advancing Integration, Sustainability, and Equity, 2025–2030, reflects insights gained from the past five years of response to COVID-19 and ongoing efforts related to MERS and other respiratory diseases. It aims to guide national health authorities and partners in adopting a coherent, action-oriented strategy for dealing with coronavirus threats within the wider context of infectious disease management.
Lessons Learned from Past Outbreaks
Coronaviruses have historically demonstrated a significant ability to cause epidemics and pandemics, starting with the first SARS virus in 2002 and continuing with MERS-CoV in 2012. Most recently, SARS-CoV-2 emerged in 2019, leading to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the global impact of COVID-19 has diminished since its peak, the virus remains prevalent, particularly among high-risk groups, resulting in severe disease and fatalities. Currently, approximately 6% of those infected develop Post COVID-19 Condition, also known as long COVID, with 15% of these individuals experiencing symptoms lasting beyond a year.
Regions around the world have reported recent spikes in SARS-CoV-2 activity, raising questions regarding the virus’s evolution and the long-term effects of COVID-19. According to Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO Acting Director for Epidemic and Pandemic Management, “Coronaviruses remain one of the most consequential infectious disease threats today.” She emphasized the importance of integrating coronavirus management into broader infectious disease programs, including those targeting influenza.
Building Resilient Health Systems
The strategic plan encourages each country to tailor its approach to fit national contexts while adhering to the overarching directions provided by WHO. The goal is to strengthen health systems so they can effectively manage existing threats and prepare for future challenges. This comprehensive strategy builds on previous preparations and responses to COVID-19, ensuring that it reflects the diverse needs and realities faced by health systems and communities worldwide.
In addition to outlining strategies for routine management and emergency response, the plan aims to enhance global monitoring of coronaviruses. To this end, WHO has expanded its Coronavirus Network (CoViNet), which now comprises 45 national reference laboratories across various health sectors, including human, animal, and environmental health. This expansion includes the addition of 11 new laboratories in 2025, further strengthening the capability to monitor and respond to coronavirus threats effectively.
CoViNet complements WHO’s Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS), which is involved in global surveillance activities for SARS-CoV-2 and other significant pathogens. With this integrated approach, WHO aims to ensure that countries are equipped to manage both current and emerging coronavirus threats, thereby safeguarding public health on a global scale.
