Geneva, May 8, 2023- The Emergency Committee on COVID-19 met for the 15th time on 4 May 2023, and issued a statement on 5 May advising the WHO Director-General that it is time to transition to long-term management of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Director-General accepted the Committee’s advice that COVID-19 is now an established and ongoing health issue and no longer constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).
During their deliberations, the Committee members highlighted the decreasing trend in COVID-19 deaths, the decline in COVID-19 related hospitalizations and intensive care unit admissions, and the high levels of population immunity to SARS-CoV-2. The Committee’s position has been evolving over the last several months.
The WHO Director-General will convene an IHR Review Committee to advise on Standing Recommendations for the long-term management of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, taking into account the 2023-2025 COVID-19 Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan. During this transition, States Parties are advised to continue following the issued Temporary Recommendations.
