The World Health Organisation (WHO) has introduced new rules aimed at improving the world’s readiness for future pandemics.

The updated International Health Regulations, which took effect on Friday, give the WHO the authority to declare a pandemic emergency as the new highest alert level.

The WHO said it encourages countries to take protective measures against dangerous diseases.

It said that the organisation can take this step under certain conditions, like when a virus emerges that threatens to spread across national borders and when the capacity of health systems is threatened.

Also when there is a risk of major social and economic consequences, and when an international coordinated response is necessary.

The updated rules also include a requirement for countries to develop the capacity to detect, monitor and immediately combat pathogens at an early stage.

A WHO committee is to support members’ states in appointing and establishing a national authority to this end.

The required capacities also include the ability to deal with misinformation about diseases or protective measures.

The WHO emphasises that, even under the new regulations, it can only issue recommendations for measures in crisis situations, and cannot order lockdowns, compulsory vaccinations or border closures.

Countries can choose whether or not to implement the WHO recommendations.

Earlier this year, the more than 190 WHO members also adopted a pandemic treaty that provides for better pandemic preparedness, including measures to guarantee the fair distribution of aid and vaccines worldwide in the event of a crisis. (dpa/NAN)