WB fund to strengthen pandemic response

The World Bank has established a new fund to strengthen pandemic preparedness and response mechanisms in low and middle-income countries The new ‘financial intermediary fund (FIF)’ for pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response (PPR) has been officially established to provide financing for PPR capabilities at national, regional, and global levels, said a statement by the World Bank. The decision to formally establish the fund was taken by the FIF governing board at its meeting on Friday. The World Bank will host the fund with technical leadership from the World Health Organisation. It will also address critical gaps through investments and technical support. The fund will provide support and improve coordination among institutions engaged in PPR. It will also serve as a platform for advocacy and provide help to strengthen health systems.