Spanish Flu to COVID-19: Healthcare Challenges And Evolution

Abstract

Spanish Flu (1918-1919) is considered the deadliest Pandemic of the twentieth century, with worldwide
mortality of about 50 million people. One hundred years after this Pandemic, WHO had released a pandemic
preparedness plan in March 2018 and urged all countries to have planned their response to future pandemics
threats. This plan is a guide to building the capacity to face healthcare and economic challenges encountered
during any pandemic. Today, in 2020, the world is witnessing Pandemic by another virus called COVID-19.
This infection originated in China and has traveled globally to affect almost all countries. Healthcare
worldwide in this Pandemic faces many challenges as expected, but the response and resilience in meeting
these challenges have been exemplary. HealthCare technological and laboratory advancement has enabled
full genomic sequencing within two weeks and the manufacture of trial vaccines within eight weeks.
From creating makeshift hospitals and community isolation facilities, manufacturing medical equipment
to providing accessible, affordable public health and information are depicting strong political will and
motivation to fight this pandemic. This pandemic has also highlighted the gaps in pandemic preparedness
among countries and provided them the opportunity to reflect on their healthcare needs and policies.