The WHO Emergency Committee (EC) on COVID-19 has stated that COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

The committee convened virtually on 14 January to review the emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants and to consider the potential use of vaccination and testing certificates for international travel. The EC suggested global expansion of genomic sequencing and data sharing, besides increased scientific collaboration to address the critical unknowns. The committee also urged WHO to develop a standardized system to name the new variants avoiding geographical markers. Regarding vaccines, the EC emphasized the need for equitable access through the COVAX Facility and also stressed on technology transfer to enhance global production capacities… (WHO, January 15, 2021)