Wednesday, 12 August 2026, 14:00–15:00 (CEST)
Background
El Niño is a naturally occurring climate phenomenon that can alter weather patterns around the world, increasing the likelihood of extreme heat, drought, flooding, wildfires and severe storms in many regions. These events can have significant impacts on health, including heat-related illness, waterborne and vector-borne diseases, malnutrition, mental health impacts, and disruptions to essential health services.
As climate-related health risks continue to grow, preparedness and anticipatory action are essential. This webinar will bring together WHO experts and partners to discuss the global health risks associated with El Niño, share practical experiences and good practices, and explore how governments, health systems and communities can strengthen resilience and reduce health impacts before, during and after El Niño events.
Objectives
- Highlight priority public health risks, including heat-related illness and waterborne diseases, vector-borne diseases, malnutrition, and disruptions to essential health services;
- Discuss actions that can be taken to strengthen emergency preparedness and anticipatory action. Highlight specific examples of past actions taken; and
- Promote collaboration across sectors to reduce health risks.
Agenda and Speakers
Introduction: EPI-WIN Science and Knowledge Translation, WHO
A Global Risk Analysis of El Niño and Health:
Dr Teresa Zakaria, Unit Head and Dr Heather Carlson, Analyst, Risk Reduction, Humanitarian Operations and Climate Change, Humanitarian and Disaster Management, WHO Health Emergencies Programme (WHE), WHO headquarters
Accelerator for Health Sector Operational Readiness ahead of the 2026-2027 El Niño:
Dr Alex Camacho, Regional Advisor, Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Risk Reduction, WHO/PAHO
Enhancing climate resilience and environmental sustainability: Examples from the Ngouri district hospital in the Lake Chad Basin: Mr Alexandre Robert, Health Programme Manager, Climate Action Accelerator
Q&A
Closing Remarks: Mr Altaf Musani, Director, Humanitarian and Disaster Management, WHE, WHO headquarters
Closing: Moderated by EPI-WIN Science and Knowledge Translation, WHO