Pandemic: a limited concept for dealing with the public health emergencies that lie ahead.

Abstract

It is argued that there is a need to question the appropriateness of the concept of "pandemic" to enhance responses to global public health emergencies. Drawing from the context of COVID-19 and without overlooking previous outbreaks (such as H1N1 in 2009, Ebola in 2014, or Zika in 2016), attention is directed towards the symbolic, political, and sanitary power associated with pathogens attaining "pandemic" status, often at the expense of other pathogens and non-communicable diseases. This discourse invokes Susan Sontag's notion of metaphors. Advocacy is made for the greater suitability of the term 'Public Health Emergencies of International Concern,' notwithstanding the need for heightened transparency and consistency in its attribution. Moreover, it is asserted that the success of fair, equitable, and integrated responses, both in the global north and south, requires much more than mere designations. What is lacking are concrete actions and commitment to health and well-being.