Global health experts have warned that the world’s capacity to prevent and respond to infectious disease outbreaks is weakening. The Global Preparedness Monitoring Board (GPMB) issued a report on Monday stating that outbreaks are becoming more frequent and severe, while investments in pandemic preparedness are failing to keep pace with rising risks. The warning came amid ongoing Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.

The report highlighted that climate crises, armed conflicts, and geopolitical divisions are worsening the threat of disease spread, while global cooperation is being undermined by political and commercial interests. The World Health Organization (WHO) convened an emergency scientific consultation to guide vaccine and treatment research. WHO officials also reported shortages of protective equipment in Kinshasa, with aid groups such as the International Rescue Committee and Médecins Sans Frontières assisting response efforts.

The GPMB urged world leaders to finalize a pandemic treaty ensuring equitable access to vaccines and treatments and to establish a permanent independent monitoring system. It warned that continued erosion of trust and cooperation could leave every country more vulnerable to the next pandemic.