Multisectoral Collaboration Research Articles

Optimizing asthma care in low-to-middle income countries through multisectoral collaboration: recommendation report of the first Philippine asthma assembly.

Asthma is one of the most common noncommunicable diseases, raising serious concerns about asthma-related deaths globally. Studies have reported safety concerns with shortacting beta-agonists (SABAs) monotherapy. SABA overuse contributes significantly to the healthcare burden in the Philippines. Despite Global Asthma Network's years-long advocacy for equal access to good quality essential medicines at an affordable cost, the uptake of international healthcare policies is limited in most low- and middle-income countries, including the Philippines. We reviewed a synthesis of targeted nonsystematic literature searches on the prevalence of asthma and asthma-related mortality, SABA overreliance and its adverse events, alternatives to SABA, patient referral, and the MDT approach for asthma management. Here, we describe regional challenges and recommendations for improving asthma care through continued multisectoral collaboration. The use of medications like inhaled corticosteroidformoterol combinations may aid in reducing adverse events including severe exacerbations, hospitalizations, complications resulting from oral corticosteroid use, and longterm treatment costs. Raising patient awareness about preventive measures, proper inhaler technique, and medication adherence can mitigate the burden of uncontrolled asthma. In addition, improving access to asthma medications, developing treatment algorithms and referral pathways including a multidisciplinary team for primary care physicians will pave the way for optimal asthma care in LMICs including the Philippines.

Untangling the network structure for marine litter monitoring governance

Marine litter monitoring faces integration gaps that can be addressed through multi-sectoral collaboration. Social Network Analysis (SNA) helps identify stakeholder roles in accessing, sharing, bridging, and coordinating data for effective monitoring. This study examined a network of 105 stakeholders engaged in a subnational governance arrangement for marine litter monitoring in São Paulo, Brazil. We found that the network allows access and information-sharing among every actor (i.e., non-fragmented), even from different sectors (i.e., heterophilic). Although connections are still scarce (i.e., low-density) and decentralized (i.e., low-centralization), bridging and coordinating information relied on central and intermediary actors. SNA findings at the actor level (i.e., degree and betweenness centrality) highlighted the most suitable institutions for these roles. These findings support the development of networked actions for monitoring and assessing marine litter at subnational and national levels, contributing to the implementation of the new Plastics Treaty and the Sustainable Development Goal 14.

Methodological approaches to integrate gender analysis in One Health perspective at human-animal-ecosystem interface

Abstract The One Health approach considers the interdependence between environmental aspects, human and animal health, and promotes a multi-sectoral collaboration of policies, systems and processes that should be taken into account to prevent and mitigate emerging risks at human-animal-ecosystem interface. Gender is defined as the sum of roles and behaviors determined by the social context learned and adopted by men and women which lead to different identities and roles considered suitable for each of them. Men and women are systematically exposed to several factors that can affect their well-being; this exposure is influenced by gender, social rules and behaviors. It follows that gender analysis is an essential element to maximize the potential of One Health, and it is a lens to analyze, prevent and mitigate risks at the human-animal-ecosystem interface, more effectively, identifying in detail the target groups involved in specific contexts in a socio-ecological perspective. One Health impact statement The One Health approach to public health is a holistic approach that considers environmental sustainability, animal health, and human health together. Several factors including gender, age groups, cultures and social conditions may affect significantly the risk of diseases and their clinical evolution. Supplementing the One Health perspective with a gender analysis to study the Influence of social norms, activities, and risk behavior on exposure to infections, chemical pollution, and the consequences of climate change, could help to formulate targeted interventions and maximize the effectiveness of intersectoral approach at the human-animal-ecosystem interface. However, it is often ignored, but this inclusion is critical to the ongoing development of the One Health approach in prevention and preparedness to global threats in line with the recent socio-ecological principles.

Food environments in the Pacific Region and efforts to improve them: A scoping review.

To understand the characteristics of food environments in the Pacific region, and the broader economic, policy, and sociocultural surroundings that influence food choices and interventions to improve food environments for Pacific communities. Systematic searches were conducted for articles related to food environments or factors influencing food choices from 1993-2024 in five academic databases, Google, Google Scholar, and relevant organizations' websites. Studies were included if they meet the eligibility criteria. Two authors independently reviewed the title and abstract of identified articles. Full-text screening was conducted before data was extracted from eligible studies. A narrative analysis was informed by an existing food environments framework. Pacific Island countries or territories that are a member of the Pacific Community (SPC). Not Applicable. From the 66 included studies (of 2520 records screened), it was clear that food environments in the Pacific region are characterized by high availability and promotion of ultra-processed unhealthy foods. These foods were reported to be cheaper than healthier alternatives and have poor nutritional labelling. Food trade and investment, together with sociocultural and political factors, were found to contribute to unhealthy food choices. Policy interventions have been implemented to address food environments; however, the development and implementation of food environment policies could be strengthened through stronger leadership, effective multisectoral collaboration and clear lines of responsibility. Interventions focused on improving physical, economic, policy, and sociocultural influences on food choices should be prioritized in the Pacific region to improve the food environment and mitigate barriers to healthy eating.

Strategies and interventions for achieving cardiovascular disease risk factor control in low- and middle-income countries: a review of the literature

AbstractCardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with increasing rates in low- and low-middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). These occur due to exposure to various risk factors, such as tobacco smoking, physical inactivity, hypertension, and diabetes. There are unique features in LMICs that contribute to the risk factor profile and quality of care offered in these countries. These include cultural influences on diet (carbohydrate-dense diet, use of salt-based spices and preservatives), the lack of dedicated spaces for physical activity, and perceptions of desirable body sizes. The attendant complications affect individuals, families and the community at large. Furthermore, there is a dearth of research to inform change at both the individual and policy level in LMICs. Lifestyle modification is the cornerstone of risk factor control and requires engaging relevant stakeholders in healthcare to enforce sustainable behaviour change among individuals. This includes measures from the individual level to national leadership and requires multisectoral collaboration to ensure sustainability. Such methods include building health worker capacity through a task shifting approach, strengthening the health worker-patient relationship, employing digital/technological applications, and engaging families and communities to serve as accountability partners in the management of CVD and related risk factors. There is a need for increased contextually relevant research output to inform contemporary methods to improve CVD and risk factor control in LMICs.

Peace education strategies in Zacatecas, Mexico: Towards a culture of peaceful coexistence

This article examines and proposes educational strategies for establishing a culture of peace in Zacatecas, Mexico. The theoretical framework combines the principles of peace education and community development approaches, and the analysis of the socio-cultural context and the specific challenges faced by the region in terms of violence, inequality, and lack of social cohesion is based on this framework. Subsequently, the article delineates the pedagogical techniques employed, including participatory workshops in diverse sectors, awareness campaigns, peace circles, and initiatives undertaken by academic and governmental institutions. The methodology used was exploratory to study the phenomenon of peace and descriptive to detail the characteristics of the processes of the initiatives implemented. A qualitative approach was employed to gain a nuanced understanding of the phenomenon under study, contextualized within its social and cultural milieu. Data were collected through focus groups and participant observation. The findings indicate that these strategies facilitate conflict resolution, encourage intercultural dialogue, and reinforce the sense of belonging to the community. The article concludes by underscoring the value of multisectoral collaboration and the necessity for public policies that foster the sustainability of peace education initiatives in Zacatecas.

Exploring determinants of vaccination status among pediatric populations in East Gojam, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

IntroductionVaccination is a critical public health intervention that significantly reduces morbidity and mortality among children. Despite its importance, vaccination coverage remains suboptimal in many regions, including East Gojam, Amhara Region, Ethiopia. This study investigated the sociodemographic, economic, and cultural determinants of vaccination status among pediatric populations in East Gojam.MethodsUsing a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 1,900 respondents, categorizing vaccination status as not vaccinated, partially vaccinated, or fully vaccinated. Multinomial logistic regression was used to analyze the impact of predictors such as child age, gender, parental education level, household income, geographic location, access to healthcare, trust in healthcare providers, sources of vaccination information, cultural beliefs, and perceived government support for vaccination.ResultsThe results revealed that higher parental education levels and urban residence positively influence vaccination status. Older children were less likely to be fully vaccinated, indicating a need for targeted outreach. Access to healthcare services and trust in healthcare providers significantly promoted vaccination, whereas negative cultural beliefs and misinformation adversely affected vaccination status. Perceived government support for vaccination was also a significant predictor.ConclusionThis study concludes that addressing these multifaceted determinants through educational programs, improved healthcare access, trust-building initiatives, accurate information dissemination, stronger governmental support, targeted outreach for older children, community engagement, and multisectoral collaboration can enhance vaccination coverage and improve public health outcomes in East Gojam and similar settings.

Professional development for Indonesian elementary school teachers: Increased competency and sustainable teacher development programs

Background Various problems, such as a shortage of teachers, especially in certain outlying and underdeveloped provinces, unequal distribution of teachers, low teacher competency, and mismatch between educational qualifications and scientific fields, as well as the demands of increasingly dynamic developments in science and technology, resulting in the need for professional development for elementary school teachers to improve teacher professionalism in Indonesia. These background as a basis for the government to create teacher professional education program for elementary school teachers continuously. It is hoped that it will be able to answer the educational problems facing the Indonesian nation. This research explores the opinions of elementary school teachers who have participated in teacher professional development activities through the in-service teacher professional education program. Methods We collected data through a written survey of 24 elementary school teachers, as well as article documents relevant to the research topic. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Result The research produced two main themes: increasing teacher competencies and sustainable teacher development programs. Increasing teacher competency related to social competence, pedagogical competence and professional competence. The sustainable teacher development program is related to the guaranteeing the instructional quality of post-program and multi-sectoral collaboration Conclusion Developing teacher professionalism through teacher professional education program in elementary schools in Indonesia positively impacts teachers’ becoming professional teachers. Teacher professional education program is an indication of improving teacher professionalism, especially in developing teaching skills, improving the quality of instruction, teacher motivation and individual development in dealing with various problems in instruction in the classroom, especially in elementary schools, so that the instructional objectives that have been set can be achieved. The professionalism of elementary school teachers will improve if there are sustainable programs such as mentoring programs from the government, universities and parties that focus on improving the quality of education in Indonesia

Long-term effects of adverse childhood experiences on health: A review of key social determinants and intervention strategies

Abstract. The impact of adverse early childhood experiences (ACEs) on an individual's health has far-reaching and long-lasting implications, including a wide range of mental health, psychological well-being and social relationships. This paper uses a literature review approach to explore the long-term impact of adverse experiences on health, analyse the key social determinants involved, and discuss targeted interventions to better protect children's health.ACEs lead to health outcomes that are further exacerbated by social determinants such as socio-economic status, level of parental education, community support systems, and cultural and policy contexts. Effective interventions for adverse health effects require a multilevel and targeted approach, and the current study highlights the urgent need for multisectoral collaboration to evaluate and optimise intervention strategies. This review demonstrates the long-term impact of ACEs on health and highlights the importance of addressing ACEs by analysing social determinants through an evidence-based approach to promote the health and well-being of affected children.

Combating HIV among youths in Sub-Saharan Africa through inclusive health education

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic among youths in Sub-Saharan Africa underscores the exigency for effective prevention education programs tailored to their needs. This article examines barriers hindering HIV prevention efforts for youths in the region and proposes strategies for developing more inclusive and impactful health education interventions. Despite the challenges faced by HIV-positive adolescents, comprehensive youth-friendly services remain limited. Impediments such as stigma, poverty, and lack of health-care infrastructure obstruct HIV prevention. Access to information and services, negative attitudes of service providers, and scarcity of youth programs present challenges. The article discusses approaches such as involving youth in program design, establishing community advisory boards, mobilizing community health workers, integrating services, engaging schools, employing gender-sensitive methods, and advocating supportive policies. These strategies aim to enhance cultural sensitivity, community engagement, and accessibility of education for all youths. Sustained commitment through ongoing funding, monitoring, capacity building, and multisectoral collaboration can empower youths with the knowledge and support needed to curb their long-term risk of HIV.

The Context of Poverty and Cancer: Denying Human Potential.

Poverty is a carcinogen and a leading cause of cancer disparities and overall mortality in the United States. Poverty is often viewed as an individual failure for "being poor," but in fact, poverty is structurally driven, intergenerational, and place-based that socially deprives and denies human potential. Disparities in timely cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, and survival disproportionally impact people living in poverty and especially in persistent poverty areas, an extreme form of place-based poverty that affects communities over multiple generations. There has been some progress made to address place-based conditions that exacerbate poverty, such as the NCI's initiative on persistent poverty. However, gross inequality and cancer disparities continue to exist and persist. The time is now to accelerate the development of research-informed strategies and solutions with communities along with multisectoral collaborations with education, housing, occupation/workforce, foster care, criminal justice, transportation, and data collection systems. This commentary discusses the structural, place-based, and generational context of poverty, illustrates how entrenched inequities shape poor cancer outcomes, and describes opportunities for future research.

“I don't care about my mental health because I have a physical disability”: A qualitative study on the mental healthcare-seeking behaviours of people with disabilities in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, people living with disabilities are one of the most vulnerable groups, as they receive little or no assistance. They face numerous challenges regarding financial, social, and access to basic education and healthcare, which contribute to experiences of distress and mental health issues. However, there is limited research on the mental health needs of people with disabilities and the accessibility of mental health services in Bangladesh. This qualitative study addresses this gap by examining the mental healthcare-seeking behaviours of people with disabilities and challenges in care-seeking pathways and recommendations for devising an inclusive system in existing mental health services through key informant interviews and focus group discussions with 55 participants from four stakeholder groups. Findings highlight that limited mental health, literacy, stigma, and financial and logistical challenges, such as inaccessible transportation and distant facilities, hinder access to care. System-level barriers, including a lack of specialists and inadequate community-based services, further exacerbate the issue. Stakeholders recommended strengthening social support systems by providing disability identity cards, allowances, and access to inclusive education and employment opportunities. They also emphasized the need for awareness campaigns, better transportation options, and training for healthcare workers. Policymakers are urged to design culturally relevant needs-based interventions to improve mental healthcare pathways for people with disabilities while promoting multisectoral collaboration.

La protección de los derechos de la infancia en el ámbito digital

The study analyzes the protection of children's rights in the digital environment, addressing the current context in which minors interact with digital technologies that can violate their privacy and expose them to risks of cyberbullying and data exploitation. It examines normative frameworks such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child and UN General Comment 25, which seek to adapt child protection to the digital age, although significant shortcomings persist. Through a literature review, the article evaluates the effectiveness of current policies and proposes the adoption of preventive approaches, such as safe design, in addition to digital citizenship education for minors. The results highlight the lack of specific regulation, the difficulty in adapting privacy policies and the commercial exploitation of children's data. In conclusion, the need for multisectoral collaboration and a unified regulation that allows minors to have a safe online experience, where their fundamental rights are respected and their integral development is favored, is emphasized.

Assessing Public Awareness and Stakeholder Influence in Renewable Energy Implementation : A Case Study from Sulawesi, Indonesia

This study aims to assess public awareness and stakeholder influence in implementing renewable energy projects in Sulawesi, Indonesia, focusing on the districts of Jeneponto, Pangkep, Polewali Mandar, and Majene. We employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to provide a comprehensive analysis. The data collected includes responses from 400 residents across the selected districts and in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including government officials, NGO representatives, and private sector actors. The results indicate that public awareness of renewable energy technologies and policies is generally low, with only 27% of respondents demonstrating basic knowledge. Awareness levels were particularly low in rural areas, where over 70% of respondents were unfamiliar with renewable energy initiatives. The study also found significant correlations between demographic factors, such as education and income levels, and awareness, suggesting that targeted educational campaigns are necessary. In terms of stakeholder influence, the study highlights the challenges faced in implementing renewable energy projects, including financial constraints and regulatory complexities. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for enhancing renewable energy adoption through multi-sectoral collaboration and culturally adapted strategies. This research’s novelty lies in its comprehensive approach, which integrates public perception with stakeholder dynamics, as well as its focus on a regionally specific context within Indonesia, offering practical recommendations for accelerating the renewable energy transition in similar developing regions. This study also provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to bridge the gap between policy and practice in renewable energy adoption.

5.E. Round table: Crafting Policies for Health Promotion: evidence from local settings

Abstract As communities vary in their needs, challenges, and resources, tailoring health promotion policies to specific contexts becomes imperative for effectiveness. Drawing upon the expertise of seasoned practitioners, policymakers, and researchers, this workshop offers a multifaceted perspective on navigating the complexities inherent in designing, implementing, and evaluating locally tailored health promotion policies, with a specific focus on environmental and social factors. The workshop will make it possible to compare different experiences from various European countries, with high-level speakers who have different backgrounds and roles in their countries and regions, thus providing an interesting and interactive way of comparing and examining real-world examples and best practices. The examples provided delve into: participatory techniques to design healthier environments, to identifying, collecting and elaborating evidence upon which to build policies and actions that are effective in addressing specific health challenges. Through the examples presented, we will seek to make the case for multi-actor and multisectoral collaboration. In addition, we will try to understand How do subnational authorities and partners identify priorities for action. A common question asked to the speakers will therefore: how can a variety of actors (local and regional authorities, university and research centres...) come together to support cross-sectoral action? How can policymakers be supported towards creating environments that prioritize the well-being of all, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future for everyone? The end goal will be to enable attendees to be equipped with actionable strategies and tools to foster meaningful change within their own communities, by understanding the intricate interplay between community dynamics, stakeholder engagement, evidence-based practices, and policy implementation strategies. The workshop is being organized by the WHO Regions for Health Network (RHN). Key messages • Tailoring health promotion policies to specific contexts is imperative for effectiveness, considering the diverse needs, challenges, and resources of different communities. • Subnational authorities and partners must identify priorities for action and collaborate across sectors to address specific health challenges effectively. Speakers/Panelists Klara Dokova Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria Camilla Ihlebaek Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Aas, Norway Jo Peden Public Health Wales, Cardiff, UK Odile Mekel NRW Centre for Health, Bochum, Germany Liesbeth van Holten Province of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands

Norita is the first of many self-managed community neighbourhoods to come: A conversation with organizers and residents of Barrio Norita Cortiñas in the Buenos Aires metropolitan area (Part II)

These two conversations with organizers and residents of Barrio Norita Cortiñas in Buenos Aires reflect the ongoing struggle for housing rights in Argentina. The discussions detail the development of the self-managed community, which emerged from land occupations in Guernica during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants highlight the collective efforts to secure land through self-organization and assembly-based decision-making, ultimately purchasing land to establish a neighbourhood for 62 families. The conversations explore the obstacles faced, including government repression, real estate speculation, and economic challenges, while also emphasizing the critical role of feminist leadership and multisectoral collaboration in their fight for land and housing rights. Additionally, the residents connect their local struggle to broader national and international movements for land reclamation and workers' rights. This underscores the urgency of solidarity and collective action in confronting neoliberal policies and housing precarity.

Norita is the first of many self-managed community neighbourhoods to come: A conversation with organizers and residents of Barrio Norita Cortiñas in the Buenos Aires metropolitan area (Part II)

These two conversations with organizers and residents of Barrio Norita Cortiñas in Buenos Aires reflect the ongoing struggle for housing rights in Argentina. The discussions detail the development of the self-managed community, which emerged from land occupations in Guernica during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants highlight the collective efforts to secure land through self-organization and assembly-based decision-making, ultimately purchasing land to establish a neighbourhood for 62 families. The conversations explore the obstacles faced, including government repression, real estate speculation, and economic challenges, while also emphasizing the critical role of feminist leadership and multisectoral collaboration in their fight for land and housing rights. Additionally, the residents connect their local struggle to broader national and international movements for land reclamation and workers' rights. This underscores the urgency of solidarity and collective action in confronting neoliberal policies and housing precarity.

2.Y.2. International Health Regulations – role on disease control and global challenges

Abstract The International Health Regulations (IHR) are a legal instrument aimed to control infectious disease epidemics worldwide and that makes countries accountable for monitoring and promptly notifying the World Health Organization (WHO) of events that are likely to represent a public health emergency. The 196 signatory countries are bound by this international agreement. This workshop aims to present evidence on the role and updates of the IHR as a framework for global health preparedness. It will do that by exploring the main components of the IHR and their practical implications for public health practice, with particular emphasis on their function in preventing, detecting, and responding to cross-border public health threats. The workshop will feature four short presentations, in a total of 15 minutes, beginning with three presentations showcasing the findings of literature reviews covering various aspects of the IHR. These topics include the main challenges to implementation, the effectiveness of the IHR during the COVID-19 pandemic, its relevance to travel medicine and zoonosis prevention, and strategies for controlling vector-borne diseases. The last presentation will delve into the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing the IHR at both national and international levels, in the context of the proposals from the Working Group on Amendments to the International Health Regulations (2005). Throughout the workshop, emphasis will be placed on understanding how the IHR facilitate collaboration and coordination among countries during health emergencies, as well as the importance of capacity-building, information sharing, and multisectoral collaboration. This structure will allow for discussion aimed at areas for improvement to the IHR, especially in the context of its revision process and global health governance. We believe the added value of this workshop will be creating a platform for critical analysis and dialogue, sharing insights into the evolution of the IHR, ongoing debates, controversies, and emerging trends in global health regulations. Key messages • This workshop provides a platform for in-depth exploration of the IHR’s role in global health preparedness, offering evidence on its components and practical implications. • Through analysis of challenges and discussions on disease control, attendees will engage in critical dialogue aimed at improving the IHR and enhancing global health governance.

5.F. Scientific session: Staying cool: innovative solutions for an ageing population in a warming Europe

Abstract The EU is facing the dual challenge of climate change and rapid population ageing: temperatures in Europe are warming more rapidly than in the rest of the world and at the same time the number of those aged 85 years or more in the EU is projected to more than double by 2050. The increase of morbidity and mortality due to extreme heat is higher in older adults compared to the other age groups. During the workshop, we will first address the effect of heat waves and raising temperatures on older adults’ health and then present and discuss possible innovative tools and actions to minimise their impact on the EU ageing population. Objectives Emphasise the importance of addressing heat waves and raising temperatures including their impact on NCDs, with a focus on the implications for the ageing population; Present the reinforced activities of the Climate and Health Observatory, focusing on raising temperatures and heat waves; Discuss possible measures at EU level, multisectoral collaboration, the synergies and possible trade-offs between adaptation and mitigation measures; Discuss innovative solutions to minimise the impact of raising temperatures and heat waves on older adults. Speakers/Panelists • Projections of heat exposure of older adults and the consequences. • The European Climate & Health Observatory – presentation of reinforced & broadened activities. • Measures for adapting to and protecting against the effects of heat waves and warming. • Tackling the problem at the source: mitigating the contribution of the healthcare sector to GHG emissions/climate change.

Impact of AI on public health emergency communication in Europe and Central Asia: A Delphi study

Abstract Background Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds the potential to fundamentally transform public health communication - presenting promising opportunities alongside profound challenges and risks. This two-wave Delphi study therefore invited practitioners and scholars to assess the potential impact of AI on the risk communication, community engagement, and infodemic management (RCCE-IM) of public health authorities in European and Central Asian countries. Methods In two successive online surveys, 54 experts - both RCCE-IM practitioners and scholars with expertise in (digital) health communication, risk communication, and AI - from 28 countries provided their assessment of the following analytical dimensions: (1) opportunities, challenges, and risks of AI, (2) conditions for the responsible use of AI, (3) potential future scenarios, and (4) prioritized actions. The first Delphi wave followed an open and exploratory approach, while the second wave sought to prioritize and rank key findings from the previous round. The survey instruments included open-ended and closed-ended questions that were analyzed through statistical analysis, inductive and deductive coding. Results Results showed that AI holds various opportunities for the RCCE-IM of public health communicators. Challenges and risks, such as algorithmic bias or concerns about inclusivity, equally affect RCCE-IM efforts. Experts identified seven principles for the responsible use of AI (e.g., fair, human-centered) and predicted optimistic (e.g., optimized workflows) and pessimistic (e.g., flood of (mis)information) scenarios for the future impact of AI. Prioritized actions range from regulation, resource allocation, and feedback to capacity building, public trust, and education. Conclusions To responsibly navigate the opportunities, challenges, and risks of AI for public health emergency communication, clear guiding principles, ongoing critical evaluation, and multi-sectoral collaboration are needed. Key messages • AI is likely to transform public health emergency communication. • A set of agreed-upon principles will support public health authorities in the responsible management of the opportunities, challenges, and risks of AI.