Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove Highlights WHO’s Role in Protecting Maternal Health and Preventing Pandemics

To mark National Public Health Week (April 7-13), Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s Technical Lead for Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention, joined Dr. Vin Gupta to reflect on the World Health Organization’s critical role in safeguarding global health. The conversation focused on WHO’s new maternal and newborn health campaign, the organization’s broader role in pandemic prevention, and the growing challenge of health misinformation.

The new maternal and newborn health campaign aims to reduce preventable deaths and improve the early days of life for mothers and babies around the world. Dr. Van Kerkhove emphasized that every child deserves a safe and healthy start, and that the foundation of long-term health begins before birth. The campaign calls for investment in stronger health systems, access to prenatal care, and equitable healthcare for all.

In addition to maternal health, the discussion explored how WHO brings countries together to share information, track disease threats, and respond quickly to outbreaks. Dr. Van Kerkhove highlighted the importance of global surveillance and cooperation, especially in a world where diseases can spread rapidly across borders. She described WHO’s role not only in emergency response, but in building resilient systems to prevent crises before they occur.

The interview also addressed the challenge of health misinformation, particularly around vaccines and preventable diseases like measles. Dr. Van Kerkhove and Dr. Gupta discussed how false narratives — sometimes shared by public figures — can undermine trust and lead to real-world consequences. Rebuilding confidence in science and public health remains a priority for WHO and its partners.

The conversation offered a timely reminder of the value of the World Health Organization and the collective efforts required to protect global health, from maternal care to pandemic preparedness.