In 1950, the World Health Organization (WHO), decided to celebrate April 7 of each year as World Health Day. This occasion not only celebrates the founding of the WHO, it also helps draw attention to a subject of major importance: global health. Each year, the WHO puts together international and local events related to a theme, bringing attention to issues such as mental health, maternal and child care, and climate change.
World Health Day and COVID-19
With the increased burden COVID-19 is placing on our healthcare professionals, this year’s theme couldn’t be timelier — Support Nurses and Midwives. As we learn to navigate the new world brought on by the spread of COVID-19, these healthcare professionals are helping guide us while taking on increased hardships and risks from the front lines. Nurses and midwives build relationships of trust with their patients to improve care and save costs. They know the traditions, cultures, and practices of their communities, making them indispensable when a quick, effective response is required.
This year, the WHO has declared 2020 the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife, and will launch a new State of the World’s Nursing Report. The report will give readers a global picture of the nursing workforce, and support evidence-based planning to optimize the contributions of the workforce.
Show your support
Many of us may have friends and family members who are nurses or midwives. Today, let’s spread the word about the work they’re doing and let them know they have our thanks and support as they work on the front lines in this battle against COVID-19. We can also recognize them by sharing photos and videos of and from nurses, midwives, and other healthcare professionals that highlight why their work is vital. Use #SupportNursesAndMidwives and #COVID19.
Visit the World Health Day webpage for more information, and discover more ways you can show your support.