Pandemics and humanitarian crises
In situations where existing health systems are stretched, there is often an unprecedented demand on individuals and communities to manage their health.
Innovative strategies that go beyond the conventional health sector response is urgently needed given that:
A record 130 million people are currently in need of humanitarian assistance, and disease outbreaks are a constant global threat.
At least 400 million people worldwide lack access to the most essential health services.
1 in 5 of the world’s population are now living in humanitarian crises, in which health systems are challenged to deliver essential services.
Self-care interventions can provide valuable, additional options to the usual health facility- or health worker-based services, as part of a supportive health system.
This is particularly relevant during a pandemic like COVID-19, when self-isolation and physical distancing measures make it more difficult for people to access their normal health care services and medications and national health systems can be disrupted.
WHO includes self-care interventions as priority actions in operational guidance on maintaining essential health services for the COVID-19 context.
Self-care interventions for health
Self care is the ability of individuals, families and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a health worker.
Self care recognizes individuals as active agents in managing their own health care, in areas including health promotion; disease prevention and control; self-medication; providing care to dependent persons, and rehabilitation, including palliative care.
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