‘This is a moral and scientific imperative,’ World Health Organization says in statement marking five years since Chinese authorities first alerted to ‘viral pneumonia’ in Wuhan

Summary

The WHO has urged China to share Covid-19 origins data, marking five years since the pandemic began. It stressed transparency and global cooperation as vital to preventing future pandemics.

China claims it provided all information early on, but debates persist. Covid-19 has caused over seven million deaths, widespread economic disruption, and long-term health issues.

The WHO highlighted progress in pandemic preparedness but noted lingering vulnerabilities.

A global pandemic treaty is under negotiation, with key disagreements on sharing pathogens and benefits like vaccines. The deadline for the treaty is May 2025.