Global Health Security: How Regional Drills Prepare Countries for Emergencies (2026)

Regional Drills Strengthen Global Health Security: A Comprehensive Review

In 2025, a series of regional drills across three WHO regions tested countries' preparedness for global health emergencies. These drills, SAPHIRE, JADE, and CRYSTAL, focused on enhancing communication, coordination, and response capabilities among National Focal Points (NFPs) and various stakeholders.

SAPHIRE Exercise: Food Safety Simulation

SAPHIRE 2025, held in July, simulated a food safety incident with international implications. Over 190 experts from 10 countries in the WHO South-East Asia Region participated, testing their ability to communicate and respond to a public health emergency. The exercise revealed improved clarity of roles, stronger cross-sectoral coordination, and better access to the Event Information Site (EIS), a WHO platform for sharing critical health event information.

JADE Exercise: Chemical Emergency Response

JADE 2025, conducted in November, focused on chemical emergencies. 41 countries in the WHO European Region practiced real-time communication and coordination between NFPs and WHO Regional Contact Points during a simulated chemical event. The exercise strengthened communication pathways and cross-sector collaboration, essential for effective chemical emergency response.

CRYSTAL Exercise: Pandemic Preparedness

CRYSTAL 2025, held in December, tested countries' readiness for the next pandemic. 31 countries and areas in the WHO Western Pacific Region rehearsed their response to a fictional novel respiratory illness. The drill emphasized real-time verification, information-sharing, and public health risk assessment, highlighting the importance of multisectoral coordination at points of entry.

These drills demonstrate the value of regular, realistic simulation exercises in strengthening global health security. By testing communication systems, refining coordination, and reinforcing NFPs' responsibilities, these drills help ensure countries are better prepared, connected, and resilient when faced with real emergencies.

The exercises also foster collaboration among various stakeholders, including health, animal health, and authorities responsible for risk communications and other sectors, showcasing the essential role of multisectoral coordination in managing emerging threats.