WHO launches website of comparative data on European countries’ responses to COVID-19

The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a website of comparative data on how different European countries are responding to the coronavirus crisis.

Set up as a pilot with selected country data, the COVID-19 Health System Response Monitor (HSRM) will be updated regularly with information from all countries in Europe.

The aim is to systematically map and analyse health system responses to the pandemic across the continent, offering cross-country comparisons of the measures being taken and tracking wider public health initiatives.

The website currently has country by country data on actions such as testing, physical distancing, isolation and quarantine, health communication, management of cases, legislation and funding of the health service.

HRSM is a joint undertaking between the WHO Regional Office for Europe, the European Commission and the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies.

WHO Regional Director for Europe Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge said: “This tool is a breakthrough resource for health systems decision-makers tackling the pandemic.

“By mapping and analysing country narratives on response and providing essential data and evidence on COVID-19, the platform will be of real value to those who are responding to the crisis across the region and seeking to mitigate its far-reaching consequences.”