NEWS FOCUS

In her final report, Professor Dame Sally Davies, outgoing Chief Medical Officer, called for countries to work together the meet the challenge of global health threats.

Focusing on domestic issues, says Prof Davies, could risk failing to control worldwide health issues such as the continued outbreak of Ebola.

‘Investing in global health is the smart thing to do because it is in our mutual interest. It creates a better world for us and for future generations. It helps to keep our population safe,’ she said.

‘We should invest in systems and solutions that contribute to making health more equitable, secure and sustainable. What we learn abroad will improve our NHS and support our domestic efforts to make sure no-one in the UK is left behind.’

The Democratic Republic of Congo has been declared a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization. This outbreak is the second biggest on record – it has infected an estimated 2500 people and approximately 1600 have died.