News

WHO conducts comprehensive health system assessment in Uzbekistan’s Karakalpakstan region 23-06-2021
WHO/Europe, in partnership with the Government of Uzbekistan, has just concluded the first part of a comprehensive health system assessment in the country’s Karakalpakstan region. The assessment will help to illuminate the health needs of people living in the region, in the context of dramatic environmental and socioeconomic change.
Keep cool this summer to protect your health 04-05-2021
This week, WHO/Europe launches its 2021 #KeepCool campaign, helping advise communities and decision-makers on ways to stay healthy in the heat and adapt for increased temperatures in the future.
Preparing for a long, hot summer with COVID-19 11-05-2020
For much of the WHO European Region, we need to be prepared for a long, hot summer. Weather services are expecting the coming summer to be warmer and drier than usual in the Region. The public, medical professionals and public health authorities need to be prepared for heatwaves and to prevent and tackle the possible health consequences of heat exposure. This is particularly important this year due to the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak compounding issues caused by extended periods of hot weather, while many people, including groups particularly vulnerable to both the infection and heat, might be advised or required to remain at home as potential lockdowns are in place.
Achieving sustainable and healthy environments for all: celebrating 30 years of the European Environment and Health Process 11-12-2019
At the First Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health in Frankfurt, Germany, held 7–8 December 1989, Member States of the WHO European Region initiated the first ever process to eliminate the most significant environmental threats to human health. That same European Environment and Health Process (EHP) is now marking 30 years since its establishment, with a birthday celebration during the ninth meeting of the European Environment and Health Task Force (EHTF) on 9–10 December 2019 in Bonn, Germany.
Floods across Europe affect thousands 15-11-2019
Recent reports of flooding in the WHO European Region have included the highest tide in Venice in more than half a century, as well as communities cut off in Montenegro and people evacuated from their homes in the United Kingdom.
Inaugural Environment and Health School takes place in Bonn 31-10-2019
As the environment and health agenda and related challenges rapidly evolve in Member States of the WHO European Region, there is a permanent need to ensure that technical capacities are nurtured in all countries. Responding to this demand, the WHO European Centre for Environment and Health (ECEH) has developed the Environment and Health School, which is taking place for the first time this week at their premises in the UN Campus in Bonn, Germany.
Harnessing disruption to improve health 14-10-2019
Disruption was the theme of this year’s European Health Forum Gastein (EHFG). Leaders in health from across Europe met to discuss how to embrace disruption in a responsible way to achieve better health for all.
Västra Götaland Region: implementing climate changes at the subnational level 08-10-2019
The Västra Götaland Region (VGR) in Sweden is implementing some key changes that will have a positive effect on climate. These address both individual behaviour and the structural policy. Thanks to the commitment of local leadership to health and sustainable development, the subnational level is the best equipped to take this kind of action.
Health advice: how to keep cool in the heat 26-07-2019
The WHO European Region is currently experiencing a very hot summer, and this is expected to continue for the next weeks. During the holiday season, this is generally a cause for joy. However, the public, medical professionals and public health authorities need to be prepared for heatwaves and to tackle the possible health consequences of heat exposure.
WHO provides health-based arguments and tools to support policy-making at UN Climate Change Conference 17-12-2018
WHO provided health-based arguments for action on climate change as well as tools to quantify the physical and economic benefits of improving air quality at the 24th Conference of the Parties (COP24) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
Small countries take intersectoral action to tackle challenges of climate change 31-10-2018
Following the endorsement of the Iceland Statement “Ensuring safe and climate-resilient water and sanitation” at the Fifth high-level meeting of small countries in Reykjavik, Iceland in June 2018, Cyprus and Monaco, both members of the WHO Small Countries Initiative, are setting an example in taking urgent policy action to combat the effects of climate change.
As wildfires threaten Europe, WHO underscores health risks 25-07-2018
As parts of the WHO European Region experience exceptionally warm and dry summer weather, several wildfires are also burning. The wildfires in the Attica region of Greece have already cost lives, and Sweden has also been battling forest fires. Together with the current high summer temperatures, these fires are posing an additional health risk to people in the area.
Health advice: how to keep cool in the heat 25-07-2018
The WHO European Region is currently experiencing a very hot summer, and this is expected to continue for the next weeks. During the holiday season, this is generally a cause for joy. However, the public, medical professionals and public health authorities need to be prepared for heatwaves and to tackle the possible health consequences of heat exposure.
Climate change increasingly affects small countries 25-06-2018
Climate change challenges many countries in the world and is increasingly affecting small countries. Ministers and other high-level public health officials from the 8 countries that make up the Small Countries Initiative will gather in Reykjavik on 26–27 June to find solutions that can protect their people’s health from this and other threats. Enhanced efforts will contribute to reaching the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This is the 5th annual meeting of the Initiative since it was launched in 2013.
Strengthening journalists’ understanding of the social context of environment and health inequalities 18-06-2018
Three United Nations agencies used the occasion of the Deutsche Welle Global Media Forum (GMF) in Bonn, Germany, to engage with journalists on different perspectives of inequalities in society. Their objective was to strengthen journalists’ understanding of the technical themes and challenges being presented, and of how to better investigate and communicate these. They also sought feedback on how the United Nations can better engage the media on these topics.
European Working Group on Health in Climate Change supports countries in implementing key commitments 14-06-2018
The Working Group on Health in Climate Change (HIC) met on 12–13 June 2018 at the WHO European Centre for Environment and Health (ECEH) in Bonn, Germany. Twenty-five Member States of the WHO European Region sent nominated representatives.
Environment and Health Task Force meeting kicks off national planning in 7 key areas 22-03-2018
Last year, countries in the WHO European Region adopted the Ostrava Declaration, which commits them to make visible, measurable and equitable progress on environment and health in 7 priority areas. In order to do this, Member States agreed to develop national portfolios of actions on environment and health by the end of 2018, coordinated by country-nominated focal points.
WHO warns: stay alert and help vulnerable as cold grips Europe 28-02-2018
A wave of cold weather hitting Europe this week poses health risks, particularly to people in vulnerable situations, WHO/Europe experts warn. Temperatures are expected to plunge below average in western European Russia, central Europe, the Balkans and the Baltic States.
New agreement between UN Environment and WHO to further strengthen collaboration in the Region 19-01-2018
On 10 January 2018, the United Nations Environment Programme (UN Environment) and WHO agreed upon a new global collaboration framework to tackle environment and health risks. For the WHO European Region, this agreement builds upon long-standing and strong regional collaboration through the European Environment and Health Process, in which UN Environment is a key stakeholder.
Health in focus at the UN Climate Change Conference 21-11-2017
The 23rd Conference of the Parties (COP23) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) took place in Bonn, Germany, on 6–17 November 2017. The Paris Agreement, adopted on 12 December 2015, marked the beginning of a new era in the global response to climate change. The “right to health” acknowledged in the Paris Agreement is central to many of the actions that countries will take on climate change in the years to come.
Public health advice as heatwave continues across southern and central Europe 13-07-2017
Excessively high temperatures are expected to continue in parts of central Europe, Balkan countries, Italy, Portugal and southern Spain. Such heat leads to increased concerns for the health and well-being of vulnerable groups such small children, the elderly and those who have chronic medical conditions.
Exploring synergies between health, climate change mitigation and nature conservation 28-06-2017
Green infrastructure can function as a climate change adaptation measure that also promotes health and well-being. This is the message and opportunity being discussed at the 2017 European Conference on Biodiversity and Climate Change, taking place on 27–29 June 2017 in Bonn, Germany. This year’s theme is “Biodiversity and health in the face of climate change”.
Day 3 of Environment and Health Conference: Commitments to advance the agenda in Europe 16-06-2017
After 3 days of discussions and deliberations, the Sixth Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health drew to a close. The participants took stock of the progress made on environment and health in the WHO European Region, as well as committing the Region to further action, culminating in the signing of the Ostrava Declaration.
Day 2 of Environment and Health Conference: Addressing inequalities, good governance, rights and resilience 15-06-2017
On the second day of the Sixth Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health, participants explored the role of communities and national and regional authorities in strengthening resilience. Discussions focused on the global relevance of environment and health policy in Europe and how to stimulate changing patterns of consumption towards sustainable development.
Day 1 of Environment and Health Conference: Taking stock of the past to transform the future 14-06-2017
Opening the Sixth Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health, Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, drew parallels between the host city’s industrial past and modern regeneration, and the “transformative spirit of the Agenda for Sustainable Development”. Health and environment experts are gathered in Ostrava, Czech Republic to track progress and prioritize future action on environmental risks to health.
United Nations agencies urge Europe’s action on 1.4 million annual deaths from polluted environments 13-06-2017
The World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe (WHO/Europe), the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UN Environment) call on European leaders to scale up action to prevent environment-related deaths and diseases affecting their populations. Each year, at least 1.4 million Europeans die prematurely due to polluted environments; this corresponds to at least 15% of Europe’s total deaths. Around half of these deaths are due to outdoor and indoor air pollution. Altogether, European citizens lose annually 50 million years of healthy life from environmental risks.
World Environment Day: health is intrinsically linked to the environment 05-06-2017
Globally, an estimated 24% of the burden of disease and 23% of all deaths can be attributed to environmental factors. These include air and water pollution, hazardous chemicals, waste and climate change. On the contrary, interventions to protect and preserve the environment can directly improve health.
As icy weather grips Europe, WHO offers reminders about measures to reduce health risks from exposure to cold 11-01-2017
Recently, much of the WHO European Region has been hit by cold, icy weather. Deaths due to the cold have been reported in several countries. Exposure to cold weather, whether indoors or outside, can cause a range of adverse health effects, from mild symptoms to serious or life-threatening health outcomes. Extremely cold weather increases mortality and poses a high health risk to many, particularly those in vulnerable situations.
Managing change towards environmentally sustainable health systems (ESHS) 11-11-2016
Promoting and managing a systemic change is necessary to advance the environmental sustainability of health systems (ESHS). This was the conclusion of experts and representatives of the WHO Member States at a meeting held in Bonn, Germany, on 24-25 October 2016. They noted the urgency of complementing the current pool of provider-driven sustainability activities with planned change management. This will require a top-down, governance-driven approach that nurtures bottom-up initiative via a mandate and regulatory or institutional frameworks, stakeholder buy-in and Incentives for change, strategic planning and progress metrics.
Ministers endorse joint statement on climate change and health at high-level meeting of small countries 12-10-2016
Today, health ministers and policy-makers from eight European countries endorsed a statement that commits them to joining efforts in protecting people’s health from adverse effects of climate change. The Third High-level Meeting of Small Countries, which includes WHO European countries with a population of less than one million, took place in Monaco on 11–12 October 2016 to strengthen collaboration in tackling today’s complex health challenges.
WHO accelerates preparedness and response for natural disasters 02-09-2016
Between 1990 and 2015, over 1300 natural disasters in the WHO European Region affected over 30 million people and killed over 150 000. Earthquakes, flooding and heat waves have both immediate and long-term impacts on people’s lives. In this second in a series of features on humanitarian response – to events such as floods, earthquakes, heat waves, nuclear accidents and armed conflicts – we look at WHO/Europe’s work preparing for and responding to natural disasters as part of the new Health Emergencies Programme.
Public health advice issued following flash floods in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 12-08-2016
Intense rainfall in Skopje and surrounding areas in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia on 6 August 2016 caused flash floods and landslides that have led to at least 21 deaths. About 2000 people were evacuated, and 500 received medical assistance.
Decarbonisation – Zero emission mobility starts now! 19-07-2016
Taking stock of climate change challenges and the priorities set out in the Paris Agreement, the international Klimaaktiv Mobil conference “Decarbonisation – Zero emission mobility starts now!” took place in Vienna, Austria, on 13–15 July 2016.
Conference on health and climate sets European priorities 15-07-2016
WHO estimates that climate change will cause over 250 000 additional deaths per year between 2030 and 2050, as a result of factors including air pollution; an increase in food-, water-, and vector-borne diseases; extreme weather events; and food insecurity. At the Second Global Conference on Health and Climate, experts from the European Region identified key priorities to build health systems' capacity and create climate-resilient societies.
Fifth meeting of the WHO Working Group on Health in Climate Change 02-07-2016
Participants from 18 Member States of the WHO European Region and 3 international organizations took part in the Fifth meeting of the WHO Working Group on Health in Climate Change (HIC) on 23–24 June 2016 in Bonn, Germany.
Health is central to climate change action 11-12-2015
"Climate change has a serious adverse impact on human health, economic prosperity, political stability and societal productivity, and Europe is not spared," said Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, in her opening address at the 'Health Central to Climate Change Action' event in Paris on 9 December 2015. Dr Jakab continued by explaining how an agreement on climate change could potentially save many lives worldwide, through for example, investment in low-carbon development and clean renewable energy and strengthening climate resilience.
A strong agreement from COP21 matters to health – and to the European Region 11-12-2015
As negotiations continue in Paris, it is important to emphasize the vital and central role of health in climate change action. Without a strong, binding agreement from COP21, the WHO European Region, and the world, can expect to experience serious and even life-threatening effects.
Protecting health in a 2° world – the costs and responsibilities 07-12-2015
"These next few days in Paris mark a momentous opportunity for health - the time has come for a global agreement to keep the world's population safe from dangerous climate change – with an urgent need for us to change towards healthier, low-carbon lifestyles, leapfrogging polluting technologies towards a safer future," said Dr Louise Newport, health chair of the WHO European Region's 'Heath in Climate' change working group.
Preventing, planning for and responding to floods: 24 Member States share experiences 26-10-2015
In the WHO European Region, floods are the most common natural emergency, causing extensive damage and disruption. Over the last 20 years flood events have occurred in 49 of the 53 countries in the Region. Estimates for the Region, based on data from the International disaster database (EM-DAT) indicate that approximately 400 floods have killed more than 2000 people, affected 8.7 million and caused at least €72 billion in losses in the period 2000–2014.
What to do in heatwaves: public health advice 02-07-2015
As the European Region enters the warm season, the public, medical professionals and public health authorities must prepare for eventual heat-waves and hot spells.
Public Health Panorama – the WHO Regional Office for Europe’s new bilingual public health journal 30-06-2015
The WHO Regional Office for Europe has published the first issue of its new quarterly journal of public health. Public Health Panorama features good practice in policy and research in public health from across the European Region; it is published online and in print in both English and Russian.
Day 3 of the World Health Assembly: highlights for the European Region 21-05-2015
Day 3 of the World Health Assembly: highlights for the European Region.
Time running out to reduce climate change threats to health 16-04-2015
Heat waves and other extreme weather events, together with changes in the distribution of vector-borne diseases and allergic disorders, are some of the climate change-related challenges affecting countries in the WHO European Region, according to a new WHO report to be presented at the mid-term review of the European Environment and Health Process in Haifa on 28–30 April 2015.
Water and sanitation: still a luxury for millions of Europeans 14-04-2015
100 million people in the WHO European Region still do not have a household connection to drinking-water. A new WHO report, entitled "Water and sanitation in the WHO European Region: 2014 highlights", provides evidence for the WHO mid-term review of the European Environment and Health Process in Haifa, Israel, on 28–30 April 2015.
Raising the prominence of health in climate change action 12-03-2015
A high-level meeting on 25 February 2015 was convened jointly at the Royal Society in London by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Prince of Wales' International Sustainability Unit (ISU) with the objective of raising the prominence of health in climate change action plans through strengthened engagement of the health sector. Representatives from China, France, Switzerland, the United States, the United Kingdom and WHO were among the participants exchanging ideas for how to increase the health sector's role in a cross-disciplinary approach to tackle climate change mitigation.
European countries to meet in April to review progress on environment and health 05-03-2015
On 28–30 April 2015 in Haifa, Israel, countries in the WHO European Region will evaluate the status of environment and health in the WHO European Region at the mid-term review of the European environment and health process.
Health economics on air pollution substantiate policies that save lives and the environment 10-12-2014
Recent WHO estimates confirmed that air pollution is the world’s largest single environmental health risk, attributable to 7 million premature deaths globally in 2012 as a result of the joint effects of outdoor and household air pollution, with 582 000 of those deaths occurring in the European region.
New global WHO guidelines for indoor air quality: inefficiently burning solid fuels damages health and climate 12-11-2014
WHO’s new guidelines for indoor air quality on household-fuel combustion, published today, set for the first time emission targets to address the serious health risks from burning fuels. They also oppose the use of unprocessed coal and kerosene, which severely pollutes indoor air and creates risks of fire, burns and poisoning. Worldwide, nearly 3 billion people still lack access to clean fuels and technology for cooking. In 2012, according to a WHO report, 4.3 million people died prematurely as a result of household air pollution.
Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia are better prepared for future floods following severe flooding in May 2014 11-11-2014
Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia are now better prepared and have greater capacity to cope with flooding following the response to the devastating floods that affected the countries in May 2014. This was the main conclusion of a two-day meeting on 7-8 November 2014, conducted by WHO/Europe in Belgrade, Serbia.
Norway provides mobile X-ray machine for Serbia 07-11-2014
The severe flooding in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia in May 2014 affected more than 1.6 million people, and damaged or destroyed many health facilities. For example, it destroyed medical equipment and supplies in the general hospital in Loznica, western Serbia.
Welcome to the newsletter of the European Environment and Health Process (EHP) 27-10-2014
The introduction of a European Environment and Health Process Newsletter will keep stakeholders up-to-date on the EHP’s continually-expanding body of work. Particularly during preparations for mid-term review of the Parma Commitments in March 2015, the need became evident for a means of sharing news and information on activities.
Aligning the agendas of Sustainable Development Goals and the European Environment and Health Process 09-10-2014
30 September 2014 (Bonn, Germany)
Climate action co-benefits discussed at global summit in New York 23-09-2014
Today in New York, the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is hosting a global UN Climate Summit. The Summit aims to bring together heads of state and government with leaders from business, finance, civil society and subnational governments to further catalyse ambitious action and secure continuing political commitment on reducing emissions ahead of the 21st session of the Conference of the Parties on Climate Change in Paris, France in December 2015.
Evidence supports urgent action to avoid grave health consequences from climate change 03-09-2014
Evidence is linking climate change to five major health consequences—disease and injury from extreme weather events; changing distribution of insect-borne diseases; diarrhoeal disease from water scarcity or flooding; compromised food security; and air pollution. Over 300 heads of government, leading scientists and development partners agreed that without adequate action climate change poses unacceptable risks to global public health, and they put forward ways for increasing health in tandem with climate change mitigation and adaptation at the WHO’s first-ever Conference on Health and Climate in Geneva, Switzerland, from 27–29 August 2014.
First WHO Conference on Health and Climate: Europe urges promoting health while mitigating climate change 27-08-2014
Participants from 33 Member States in the WHO European Region are taking part in the Conference, held in Geneva, Switzerland on 27–29 August 2014.
Balkans floods: clean-up underway 18-06-2014
Following the severe flooding in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia in May, the weather has improved and water levels have fallen. The removal of debris and the cleaning and disinfection of soil, roads and buildings are underway in all three affected countries. Municipalities are still trying to re-establish services (including those providing electricity, water and transportation) in large parts of the affected areas.
WHO event at UN climate talks: What the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report means for health 17-06-2014
Delegates of the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Bonn gathered on 12 June 2014 at a WHO side event to explore recent findings on climate change and health. Dr Jörn Birkmann from the United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security, and a lead author for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) Working Group 2 (WGII), presented vulnerabilities and risks outlined in the IPCC’s recent findings, including the need to strengthen response capacities related to health.
Balkans floods: emergency supplies arrive 05-06-2014
Following the severe flooding in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia in May, water levels have been falling in most areas, but stagnating in some. The transition from the response phase to the recovery phase is underway: families are returning to their homes to begin to clean and repair them.
Communicating health evidence of climate change for decision-making 05-06-2014
The value of research lies in its credibility and in the ability to communicate it to key decision-makers. This was the main discussion topic at a meeting held at the WHO European Centre for Environment and Health in Bonn on 27-28 May 2014. Over 30 experts and representatives from a number of European countries gathered to examine and communicate the health implications of the latest assessment report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to environment and health officials.
WHO/Europe responds to Balkan floods 27-05-2014
Since 13 May 2014, communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia have been severely affected by floods.
Public health advice on flooding 16-05-2014
Heavy rains have caused severe flooding in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia. WHO/Europe has information on how flooding affects health, guidance on water supply and sanitation, and advice on preventive measures.
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report: reducing greenhouse gas emissions can have significant health benefits 25-04-2014
Greenhouse gas emissions, mainly from the combustion of fossil fuel, are growing rapidly. Over 75% of annual growth comes from the energy and supply sector and this figure increases with higher income countries.
United Nations Secretary-General calls for sustained focus on climate change 22-04-2014
During a visit to the Czech Republic on 3–4 April 2014, Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon met with top Czech officials and United Nations staff to discuss pressing issues for the country.
First-hand experience: vector-borne diseases 07-04-2014
People in the European Region are at risk from diseases carried by vectors – both within the Region, and when travelling abroad. Individuals whose lives have been touched by these diseases, having caught them or through working with them, tell their stories.
How to protect yourself from vector-borne diseases: World Health Day 2014 03-04-2014
Whether travelling to or living in an area with diseases spread by mosquitoes, sandflies, ticks or other vectors, take steps to protect yourself. Check out these top tips and fact sheets on 7 vector-borne diseases affecting the WHO European Region.
77 000 Europeans fall sick every year with vector-borne diseases 02-04-2014
People living in the WHO European Region do not escape diseases carried by vectors. On World Health Day, 7 April 2014, WHO calls on everyone to protect themselves from vector-borne diseases.
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report: negative health effects outweigh benefits 01-04-2014
Climate change will mainly exacerbate existing health problems, at least until the middle of this century, and the risks will be largest for populations already most affected by climate-related diseases.
Experts to work on Montenegro’s health system strategy to adapt to climate change 24-02-2014
At the national roundtable in Podgorica, held on 20 December 2013, public health experts discussed how to strengthen the capacity for understanding the health risks posed by climate change. Special emphasis was also given to responding to early warnings and having emergency plans in place.
Just published: Environmental health inequalities in Malta. Assessment report 17-02-2014
This report presents the first national assessment of the magnitude and distribution of environmental health inequalities in the Maltese Islands, and responds to the commitments made at the Fifth Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health in Parma, Italy in 2010.
Strategy to prevent health effects of climate change underway in Turkey 13-01-2014
A strategy development workshop organized by the Ministry of Health on 5–6 December 2013 in Ankara focused on how best to adapt to climate change, emergency preparedness, whole-of-government support, practical action in urban development and infectious disease surveillance. WHO/Europe provided technical guidance for the workshop.
Health on agenda at COP19 climate change conference 21-11-2013
Held on 11–22 November in Warsaw, Poland, the nineteenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP19) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has brought together people from all over the world to negotiate the details of the next global agreement on climate change.
Visualizing the economic and health benefits of environmental measures: a winning combination 23-10-2013
“Visualizing” both the health and economic gains can help persuade policy-makers to improve environmental health and obtain government support, according to participants at the Second Symposium on Environmental Health and Economics, held on 14–15 October 2013 in Bonn, Germany.
Greening health systems meeting held 25-09-2013
On 27-28 August 2013, WHO/Europe held a technical meeting on greening health systems to discuss environmentally friendly health systems, steps to develop a strategic roadmap and lessons learnt from a variety of European local and regional initiatives.
Retired WHO expert honoured with environmental epidemiology award 22-08-2013
Michal Krzyzanowski, former Head of the WHO European Centre for Environment and Health in Bonn, Germany, was honoured today with the John Goldsmith Award for his outstanding contribution to environmental epidemiology.
How hot weather affects health 10-07-2013
Heat can trigger exhaustion, confusion and even heart attacks, as well as worsen existing conditions, such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The harmful effects of hot weather are largely preventable.
Floods in Europe – what people can do to protect themselves 14-06-2013
The floods in central and western Europe since early June are the worst for over a decade. WHO/Europe has published advice for those affected during and after flooding, including preventive measures to limit the future impact on health.
WHO launches new tool to estimate health costs of climate change 06-06-2013
WHO/Europe developed the tool to help Member States protect health from damage due to climate change.
Ready to take the heat in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 05-06-2013
The Strumica Region in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia is vulnerable to heat waves, often resulting in fires in the forests surrounding the city. In July 2012 four people lost their lives in the region and many others were injured as a result of just such a fire. In order to strengthen preparedness for crisis situations and climate change related emergencies, a simulation exercise took place on 22 May 2013, the fourth such event.
How flooding affects health 20-05-2013
Floods are the most common natural disaster in the WHO European Region, with effects on health ranging from drowning and injuries to infectious diseases and mental health problems.
WHO evidence underpins new EU strategy on adapting to climate change 29-04-2013
The main findings of the WHO/Europe project on climate, environment and health action plan and information system (CEHAPIS) underpin the health component of the new European Union (EU) policy on climate change, launched today.
Applications welcome for observership at WHO/Europe 18-04-2013
The European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID) is sponsoring a three-day observership for five people in WHO/Europe’s Division of Communicable Diseases, Health Security and Environment.
Early warning system for cold-waves established in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 08-04-2013
Cold weather, especially extreme temperatures, can threaten health. Recognizing that the health sector must prepare for and help mitigate the adverse health effects of cold-waves, the Government of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, with WHO support, developed an action plan for prevention of the harmful effects of cold weather.
WHO/Europe in Copenhagen moving to new premises 05-04-2013
WHO/Europe’s head office, based in Copenhagen, Denmark, is moving to new premises during 22 March to 1 April 2013. All United Nations organizations in the Danish capital will come together in new premises known as UN City.
How cold weather affects health 15-02-2013
Severe cold weather spells are common across the WHO European Region. They increase mortality and pose a high health risk to many, particularly vulnerable groups. Knowing the risks and the measures needed to prepare for and respond to cold weather can help prevent its health effects.
Climate change already affecting health in Tajikistan 07-02-2013
This is the conclusion drawn from the latest findings of a four-year project. It included assessments of vulnerability to and the impact of climate change, and of food security and nutrition in Tajikistan, as well as the implementation of several water safety plans.
Urgent need for adaption: climate change affects health 21-11-2012
Climate change is affecting all regions in Europe, causing a wide range of impacts on society and the environment. Further impacts are expected in the future, potentially causing high damage costs, according to the latest assessment published by the European Environment Agency today. WHO Regional Office for Europe contributed to assessment of the health effects.
Regional Director attends Environment and Health Ministerial Board (EHMB) meeting in Azerbaijan 21-11-2012
At its third meeting, EHMB agreed that an environment and health gateway, an on-line knowledge repository and information portal, will be developed. The meeting, hosted by the Ministry of Environment of Azerbaijan, concluded on 16 November 2012.
Atlas of health and climate launches new collaboration between public health and meteorological communities 29-10-2012
As the world’s climate continues to change, hazards to human health are increasing. The Atlas of Health and Climate, published jointly by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), illustrates some of the most pressing current and emerging challenges
Extreme weather affects health in Kazakhstan: final results of WHO pilot project 18-10-2012
A four-year pilot project, conducted by WHO/Europe and funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU), found that climate change is already a reality in Kazakhstan, as more frequent and intense extreme weather events affect people’s health and the economy.
Health in an age of austerity: WHO at European Health Forum Gastein 10-10-2012
Speaking during the opening session of the European Health Forum Gastein in Bad Hofgastein, Austria last week, Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, underlined the health sector’s vital contribution to the general economy, and the importance of investing in public health, health promotion and disease prevention in times of austerity. As more and varied groups now have an interest in health, Ms Jakab also spoke of the continuing relevance and even greater importance of WHO, and how Health 2020, the new European policy framework, supports action across government and society to promote health and well-being.
WHO provides assistance for reconstruction of water supply system to district hospital in Tajikistan 17-07-2012
As part of a wider project to protect health from climate change, the WHO Country Office in Tajikistan is supporting efforts to ensure safe water supplies to hospitals. Among the WHO-supported activities is reconstruction of the water supply system at Rudaki Central District Hospital.
Severe heat-wave in Europe: advice on health effects and ultraviolet exposure 28-06-2012
Parts of the European Region are experiencing extreme heat-waves. Every year, heat threatens the health of many people, particularly the elderly. Heat can trigger exhaustion, heart attacks or confusion, and worsen existing conditions, such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Nevertheless, the harmful effects of hot weather are largely preventable.
Rio+20 puts health at the heart of development goals 22-06-2012
The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, Rio+20, recognizes in its final document the fundamental need to act on the social and environmental determinants of health to create inclusive, equitable, economically productive and healthy societies.
Questions answered: health advice for travellers to EURO 2012 11-06-2012
WHO/Europe has produced detailed health advice for people attending the 2012 UEFA European Football Championship (EURO 2012). It includes information on how to prepare before leaving home, stay safe in crowds, seek emergency health care, and avoid, recognize the symptoms of and treat common travellers’ illnesses.
Climate change and health: lessons learnt in the WHO European Region 04-06-2012
European Member States, UN and EU agencies, as well as researchers will be meeting for the first time after the Ministerial Conference to report on new findings and challenges on climate change and health in line with the Parma declaration. This meeting is also the first meeting of the renewed working group on climate change and health of the European Environment and Health Process. The meeting is expected to set the agenda of work on climate change and health and to define priorities and particular areas which require enforcement.
New report gives preliminary dose estimation from Fukushima nuclear accident 23-05-2012
The report describes a preliminary estimate of radiation doses to the public resulting from the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear site in Japan in March 2011.
WHO/Europe contributed to the interagency report “From transition to transformation: sustainable and inclusive development in Europe and Central Asia” 26-04-2012
Sustainable development calls for a new health governance approach, introducing the health dimension in decision-making processes cutting across all public policy areas. The development of this approach requires political leadership, creation and dissemination of know-how across sectors, provision of incentives that promote cross-sectoral work, allocation of resources and clarification of responsibilities.
Environment and health training workshop in Latvia 27-03-2012
Seventy participants from the health and environment sectors of eight countries (Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia) attended a training workshop on environment and health in Riga, Latvia, from 19 to 23 March 2012.
Significant steps taken in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia to mitigate health effects of climate change 27-03-2012
Results of a project led by WHO/Europe on protecting health from climate change were presented in Skopje, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, on 20 and 21 March 2012.
Where do natural hazards pose a public health risk? 20-03-2012
Earthquakes, floods, landslides, high winds and heat waves put lives in peril, and extreme weather events due to climate change are increasing. WHO/Europe has mapped people’s risk of exposure to these hazards in the 32 most-affected countries in the Region.
WHO launches expanded European Centre for Environment and Health in Bonn, Germany: new report on environmental health inequalities published 14-02-2012
One citizen out of five dies from environment-associated diseases in the WHO European Region. The environmental burden of ill health varies significantly across the Region, however, ranging from 14% to 54%. Within countries, the poor can be exposed to environmental risks five times more often than their wealthier peers, a new WHO report concludes.
Health services must prepare for extremely cold weather 03-02-2012
Extremely cold weather increases mortality and poses a high health risk to many, particularly children and elderly, homeless or intoxicated people. Health services and hospitals must care for patients suffering from exposure to the cold, hypothermia, frostbite, injuries and accidents, as well as respiratory infections and cardiovascular incidents.
Tajik journalists’ role feted in climate-change discussions 06-01-2012
On 23 December 2011, the Ministry of Health of Tajikistan and WHO recognized the contribution of the mass media and journalists to protecting health from climate change. The awards for their contributions were part of a project financed by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety of Germany.
WHO Rome office closes at the end of 2011 20-12-2011
The Rome office of the WHO European Centre for Environment and Health is due to close at the end of December 2011. WHO’s work on environment and health in Europe remains a priority and is being consolidated in Bonn, Germany and Copenhagen, Denmark. This will allow the WHO Regional Office for Europe to maintain and strengthen its technical capacities in this area for the benefit of the 53 Member States of the European Region.
WHO highlights the co-benefits for health of transport policies that mitigate climate change 06-12-2011
A new WHO report, part of the Health in the Green Economy series, considers the evidence regarding health co-benefits, and risks, of climate change mitigation strategies for transport, as reviewed by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in 2007. In the European Region, WHO is promoting climate change mitigation strategies for transport within the Framework for Action on climate change and the pan-European programme on transport, health and environment (THE PEP).
Joint action on environmental health threats discussed 02-11-2011
Meeting for the first time in Bled, Slovenia, on 26–28 October 2011, the European Environment and Health Task Force discussed proposed areas of joint action to implement the commitments agreed by European countries in the Parma Declaration on Environment and Health.
Turkey develops response strategy to climate change 30-09-2011
Key national and international stakeholders met in Ankara on 28-30 September 2011 to discuss a response strategy to climate change.
Protecting health from climate change in Kazakhstan 28-09-2011
On 20 September 2011, WHO and the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan convened a working group meeting for the joint project: Protecting Health from Climate Change in Kazakhstan.
WHO/Europe highlights the health dimension at the ‘Environment for Europe’ Conference 21-09-2011
With side events and exhibitions, WHO will keep the spotlight on health at the forthcoming Seventh "Environment for Europe" Ministerial Conference, organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) in Astana, Kazakhstan, on 21-23 September 2011. The Conference main themes are sustainable management of water and water-related ecosystems, and greening the economy: mainstreaming the environment into economic development. Both themes belong to long-standing areas of collaboration between WHO/Europe and UNECE, as part of the European Environment and Health Process and of the implementation of the Parma Ministerial Declaration on environment and health.
Training in Tajikistan boosts journalists’ ability to report on climate change 20-09-2011
A series of training workshops has helped journalists in Tajikistan to raise awareness about climate change and its effects on health. Three workshops were held in Sogd oblast (Khujand city); Khatlon oblast (Kurgan-tube) and Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO – Khorog). The aim was to develop journalists’ skills in research and analysis, and presentation of balanced coverage of environmental issues, including climate change.
The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia takes action to protect health from climate change 23-08-2011
To safeguard the health of its citizens from such risks, the Macedonian Government adopted earlier in 2011 a national health adaptation strategy to climate change and action plan, and established a national heat-health action plan to prevent and cope with the health effects of heat-waves. The strategy and its action plan were developed by the Ministry of Health with guidance from WHO/Europe as part of the project “Protecting health from climate change – A seven country initiative”, implemented with financial support from the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety.
WHO issues new advice on heat-waves 22-07-2011
Over the last week, several countries in south-eastern Europe have experienced a severe heat-wave. WHO/Europe has issued new information sheets with advice for the general public, medical professionals and health services on how to deal with the health effects of a heat-wave.
New WHO report on health co-benefits of climate change mitigation from the housing sector 20-06-2011
Evaluation of the health impacts of climate mitigation strategies is critical to informed decisions that will attain the greatest combined gain for health, well-being and sustainable development. In fact, there is good evidence that many climate mitigation strategies can yield both immediate and more sustained global public health benefits – in rich and poor societies, temperate or tropical, urban and rural. Often these health benefits can be derived at comparatively low cost – and at almost no cost to resource-strapped health services – but rather through more careful, strategic, and health-focused development investments.
Protecting health from climate change in Kyrgyzstan 26-05-2011
Kyrgyzstan is intensifying its activities on health protection from climate change. This week the Minister of Health agreed to the development of a health adaptation strategy and action plan to protect human health.
Assessing the climate change impacts in the Mediterranean region. Rome, Italy, 23-25 May 2011 23-05-2011
WHO/Europe coordinated the health aspects of CIRCE, an international project co-funded by the European Union on climate change and impacts research in the Mediterranean environment. The final conference of CIRCE, opening today, presents the first comprehensive regional assessment of climate change impacts in the Mediterranean, to which WHO/Europe contributed with the health chapter. On the last day, the conference will discuss different aspects with stakeholders.
Managing negative impacts of heat-waves: symposium held in Croatia on heat and health action plans 18-05-2011
Climate change has an impact on morbidity and mortality. As Europe, Australia and New Zealand have experienced, heat-waves increase awareness of the connection between health and high temperatures.
Development of a national climate change and health adaptation strategy in Tajikistan 13-05-2011
Under the framework of the German Federal Environment Ministry (BMU) project “Protecting health from climate change”, the WHO Country office in Tajikistan organized a special consultation meeting of the working group for the development of the national climate change and health adaptation strategy in Khoja Obi Garm.
Ministers push environment and health commitments forward 05-05-2011
Environment and health ministers, meeting in Paris this week, have agreed on how to monitor progress in reducing the adverse health impact of environmental threats across the European Region. The first meeting of the European Ministerial Board on Environment and Health took place on 4-5 May 2011.
Protecting people in Uzbekistan from the effects of climate change 28-04-2011
Uzbekistan is one of seven countries (China, Bhutan, Kenya, Fiji, Barbados, Jordan) implementing the global project on public health adaptation to climate change funded by Global Environment Facility (GEF).
Workshop on Climate Change and Health Vulnerability in Tajikistan, 16 March 2011 31-03-2011
On 16 March 2011 the WHO Country office in the Republic of Tajikistan in cooperation with the Ministry of Health conducted a workshop on the development of a National Climate Change and Adaptation Strategy (NCCAS).
Urban water management in focus on World Water Day 22-03-2011
Under the theme “Water for cities”, World Water Day 2011 focuses on the impact of rapid urban population growth, industrialization and uncertainties caused by climate change, conflicts and natural disasters on urban water and sanitation systems.
Training for journalists inTajikistan on health impact of climate change 11-03-2011
A training workshop for media professionals working with climate change and health was held 4-5 March 2011 in Tajikistan.
Earth Hour: use energy wisely 09-03-2011
20.30 to 21.30 on Saturday 26 March 2011 will mark Earth Hour, when lights will be switched off around the globe so people can take a stand against climate change. Reducing overall energy use and encouraging the uptake of renewable energy sources have a dual benefit for health. This year we are being encouraged to “Go beyond the hour!”
Second issue of WHY Newsletter discusses the climate change challenges to health 28-02-2011
Green transport benefits health, creates jobs and combats climate change 17-12-2010
Health and climate change on the agenda at COP16 10-12-2010
Yesterday, the Minister of Health of The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia outlined the health effects of climate change and the strategy that his country has adopted to address them, at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Cancún, Mexico.
WHO international conference seeks consensus on public health recommendations for extreme weather events. Bonn, Germany, 29-30 November 2010 03-11-2010
This international conference aims to start putting the European Framework for Action in practice through a review of the international experience in adaptation to climate change, with a focus on extreme weather events.
Progress towards MDG 7 on ensuring environmental responsibility faces challenges in the WHO European Region 01-11-2010
The report Millennium Development Goals in the WHO European Region. A situational analysis at the eve of the five-year countdown points to the need to strengthen health systems to reach the MDGs. Special attention is given to inequities and to synergies between the MDGs. MDG 7, aiming to ensure environmental responsibility, has a fundamental role in safeguarding human health and survival.
Extreme heat-wave and wildfires cause public health concerns in the Russian Federation 17-08-2010
Wildfires that started in mid-July 2010 in the Central and Volga federal districts of the Russian Federation have produced a dense plume of smoke over hundreds of kilometres. The situation is aggravated by the continuing heat-wave.
Preventing health effects from heat 14-06-2010
Temperatures are on the rise in the European Region. Countries and individuals should be prepared to cope with the heat. WHO/Europe has made available guidance and tools to support health services in planning and making decisions, and to inform the public on do's and dont's.
Climate change in Malta: new report 18-05-2010
Climate change puts Malta at particular risk from flash-floods, water- and food-related hazards and (potentially) vector-borne diseases, according to a new report: “Health effects of climate change in the Maltese islands”, by the Environmental Health Directorate of Malta and WHO/Europe.
European governments adopt comprehensive plan to reduce environmental risks to health by 2020 15-05-2010
The Fifth Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health closed in Parma, Italy, on 12 March 2010. In this first major gathering of health and environment ministers since the Copenhagen conference of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change last December, European governments pledged to integrate health issues into climate change mitigation and adaptation measures, policies and strategies in all sectors.