What is a key obligation for states under the IHR?

A key obligation for states under the International Health Regulations (IHR) is strengthening disease surveillance and reporting. The IHR is a legally binding framework designed to help countries work together to prevent and respond to public health risks that can cross borders. One of the core principles is that nations are responsible for developing and maintaining public health surveillance systems that can quickly detect, assess, and report potential health threats, such as outbreaks of infectious diseases.

By enhancing surveillance and reporting mechanisms, states ensure that information about health events is shared promptly with the World Health Organization (WHO) and among each other, allowing for effective coordinated responses and mitigations. This strengthens overall global health security and minimizes the impact of diseases on communities and countries.

In contrast, reducing healthcare costs, increasing international travel for tourism, and promoting alternative medicines do not directly align with the primary commitments established in the IHR, which emphasize surveillance, response, and support for public health infrastructures.