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World Health Day 2008

World Health Day, on 7 April, marks the founding of the World Health Organization and is an opportunity to draw worldwide attention to a subject of major importance to global health each year. In 2008, World Health Day focuses on the need to protect health from the adverse effects of climate change.

Webcast from Washington, DC

Click here to watch a replay of the World Health Day 2008 ceremony in Washington, DC

The theme "protecting health from climate change" puts health at the center of the global dialogue about climate change. this theme was selected in recognition that climate change is posing ever growing threats to global public health security.

Through increased collaboration, the global community will be better prepared to cope with climate-related health challenges worldwide. Examples of such collaborative actions are: strengthening surveillance and control of infectious diseases, ensuring safer use of diminishing water supplies, and coordinating health action in emergencies.

A message from PAHO Director, Dr. Mirta Roses Periago
 
A message from WHO Director-General, Dr. Margaret Chan