Public Health Emergencies: Preparedness and response

Since 2011, there have been more than 1200 outbreaks of epidemic-prone diseases in 188 countries around the world. Large-scale epidemics cause widespread death and suffering, disproportionately affect the poorest and most vulnerable populations, and lead to social, economic and political disruption.

Approximately 70-80% of high-risk pathogens spread between animals and humans (they are zoonotic). Some of these are known but many are unknown and are currently circulating among animal species around the world.

The rapid detection, verification, assessment and communication of potential health threats is essential to save lives and reduce the negative impact of health emergencies. Countries, communities and organizations must be able to respond immediately and effectively to potential health threats and emergencies caused by any hazard. For this, readiness is essential.

Theme Guide for Committee A

Committee A DIAS

Co-Chair

Nida Ahmed Syeda

Hey everyone! My name is Nida Ahmed Syeda and I am graduating from the specialised honours, Bachelors of Health Management program at York University upcoming June. I’m currently doing my practicum at Humber River Hospital’s Quality Improvement & Patient Safety department where I provide Accreditation support to various clinical & non-clinical departments. Throughout university I’ve held several leadership, volunteer and community-service roles as well as work/study positions across different Faculties. Some of my current involvements are that of a Program Coordinator for the Agents of Change Program at the Faculty of Health and a Student Health Ambassador at York (SHAY).

Co-Chair

Richard Wu

Hi everyone! My name is Richard Wu, and I am a third-year undergrad at York pursuing an Honours BSc in Global Health with a specialization in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. Outside of my studies, I am a research assistant within the Global & Environmental Health Lab at the Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research and within the Department of Emergency Medicine at St. Michael's Hospital. The Global Health program at York, in combination with some previous work experience in the world of student associations, has ignited an interest in health policy. I am excited to be joining the World Health Assembly Simulation as a committee co-chair, and I look forward to working with everyone!

Vice Chair

Tasnem Yahya

Hi everyone! My name is Tasnem Yahya and I’m in my final year of specialized honours Health Management at York University. I had the opportunity of doing an internship at St. Michael’s Hospital in the Strategy Department where I supported my manager and analyst with various projects and partnerships. I’m also doing my placement at Humber River Hospital in the Quality Improvement & Patient Safety Department where I support clinical & non-clinical departments with accreditation that’s coming up in October 2023. With my educational and professional background, I have become more confident and gained valuable knowledge that I hope to bring forth at the WHO Simulation.

Secretariat

Amina Yaqoob

Hello Everyone!

My name is Amina Yaqoob, and I am a third-year BSc Global Health student at York University, specializing in Health promotion and Disease Control. In addition to my academic pursuit; I am currently serving as a dedicated volunteer at Etobicoke General Hospital and as a member of the "Environment & Climate Action '' working group with the Toronto Youth Cabinet. Recently, I became a student ambassador at York University for Shaukat Khanum Cancer Memorial Hospital and Research Center in Pakistan and my role is to raise awareness and funds to support cancer patients who can not afford treatment. I am passionate about achieving health equity, social justice, and eliminating health disparities among communities. In the future, I am eager to work with Non-governmental organizations in the Humanitarian Sector to pursue my passion for public health and contribute to global efforts to address the humanitarian crisis.

Public Health Emergencies: Preparedness and response

Committee A DIAS

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