About framework

• Developed by: SAGO (Scientific Advisory Group for the Origins of Novel Pathogens).
  • SAGO, established by WHO in 2021, constitutes independent experts from around the world. 
• Key Principles: Framework aligns with the International Health Regulations (IHR) and One Health approach.
  • IHR adopted by WHO in 2005 is an overarching legally binding framework to provide a public health response to the international spread of disease. 
  • One Health is an integrated, unifying approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals, and ecosystems.

Significance of the Framework 

• Curtailing rising risk of the emergence of known (such as Ebola, Nipah) and novel pathogens with epidemic and pandemic potential (such as novel influenza, SARS-CoV-1). 
  • Timely and comprehensive investigations into pathogens’ origins are critical for preventing and containing global health crises
• They can also confirm or exclude the possibility of an unintentional breach in laboratory biosafety and biosecurity.
  • If this system had existed during COVID-19, finding its origin might have been less controversial and more successful (WHO).