Statement on World Health Day and COVID-19

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On World Health Day 2020, The Global Self-Care Federation calls attention to the critical role nurses and midwives play in keeping the world healthy, in normal times and in particular during this time of crisis.

Nurses, midwives and healthcare workers are playing a pivotal role in the global response to Covid-19. They are in the front-line providing high quality treatment and care, and leading community dialogue to address fears and questions.

As WHO and the global health community celebrate the Year of the Nurse and the Midwife this year, it is crucial to recognize that the nursing and midwifery workforce needs to be strengthened so that everyone, everywhere gets the healthcare they need. A strong nursing workforce also helps to educate patients about self-care practices, health promotion and disease prevention.

Self-care has never been more important and is integral to protecting yourself from Covid-19. The ability of individuals to recognize their symptoms and take care of their own health can dramatically ease the burden on healthcare professionals and health systems, as we are seeing during the current coronavirus pandemic.

WHO has launched the first ever State of the World’s Nursing Report 2020. The report supports evidence-based planning to optimize the contributions of the nursing workforce to improve health and wellbeing for all.