World Health Network

Photo background of a tall fence topped with coils of barbed wire against a blue sky; “whn.global” appears in small white text at top left. Large orange headline reads: “ICE detention practices pose serious risks to health and life”. Below in smaller white text: “Detention practices that foreseeably cause illness, trauma, and death violate basic public-health ethics. The World Health Network calls for enforceable health standards in all detention settings.” Bottom center in white: “World Health Network - Science for a safer, healthier world.”

Dark charcoal graphic with “whn.global” in small white text at top left. Large orange text reads: “Current detention practices associated with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement — including for-profit facilities — have resulted in preventable illness, injury, and death.” Below in smaller white text: “Taking people without warning from homes, workplaces, schools, or public spaces creates foreseeable and severe physical and psychological trauma.” Next paragraph in white: “People removed abruptly may be unable to bring medications, medical devices, or supplies necessary to preserve health and life.” Lower half shows a photo of a man being restrained in a crowd by officers wearing vests labeled “POLICE ICE.” Bottom center in white: “World Health Network - Science for a safer, healthier world.”

Dark charcoal graphic with “whn.global” in small white text at top left. Large orange text reads: “Confinement exposes children to significant physical and psychological harm, disrupts education, and violates established standards of health protection.” Below in smaller white text: “From a public-health and ethical standpoint, children should never be held in environments that place them at risk of harm.” Lower half contains a photo: a young child leaning against an adult, sitting on the ground near a metal wall/fence; a chain-link barrier is visible above, and a person in light clothing stands at the right edge. Bottom center in white: “World Health Network - Science for a safer, healthier world.”

Dark charcoal background with “whn.global” in small white text at top left. Large orange quote reads: “When institutional practices place people in harm’s way, especially those unable to protect themselves or seek recourse, public health has a duty to speak.” Below in smaller white text: “Public health cannot remain silent. Read the full statement at whn.global/scientific/statement-on-detention-practices” (the URL appears with “scientific/statement-on-detention-practices” in orange). Bottom center in white: “World Health Network - Science for a safer, healthier world.”

When individuals are deprived of liberty, the detaining authority assumes full responsibility for their survival, well-being, and protection from harm. Evidence shows that detention conditions have caused preventable harm, including to children.

Full statement from WHN: whn.global/scientific/s...

WHN Statement on The U.S. Department of Education's "Reimagining and Improving Student Education" (RISE) Proposed Rule - WHN Public comments may be submitted through March 2, 2026.

Read the full WHN Statement regarding this matter here: whn.global/whn-statemen...

#Rise #HealthEducation #PublicHealth #HealthcareProfessionals

How to submit a comment:

1️⃣ Visit regulations.gov

2️⃣ Search: ED-2025-OPE-0944-0001

3️⃣ Click “Comment”

4️⃣ Share how this rule could impact healthcare education or access to care

Submit comments here:

regulations.gov/document/ED-...

This may reduce enrollment in critical healthcare professions and worsen existing workforce shortages, particularly in underserved communities.

Public comments are open through March 2, 2026.

Social graphic from whn.global. Background photo shows a group of healthcare workers in blue surgical scrubs and caps walking down a hospital corridor, seen from behind. Overlaid white headline text reads: “The proposed ‘RISE’ rule could reduce access to graduate healthcare education”. Smaller white text says: “A U.S. Department of Education proposal would cap federal student lending below the cost of required healthcare training programs, potentially reducing enrollment and worsening workforce shortages.” A large orange-outlined box contains orange text: “Submit public comments by March 2, 2026.” At the bottom: “World Health Network - Science for a safer, healthier world.”

The U.S. Department of Education has proposed the Reimagining and Improving Student Education “RISE” rule, which could limit access to graduate healthcare education by setting federal student loan caps below the actual cost of required training programs.

WHN Slack Workspace - WHN Welcome to the heart of collaboration at the World Health Network! Our Slack workspace is where projects come to life and ideas turn into action. Here’s what you’ll find inside: Slack is our core plat...

Whether you want to organize, create, analyze, support, build, or connect, WHN teams are doing the work — together.

Join our Slack here: whn.global/whn-slack-wo...

Explore the teams, and find where you fit.

#PublicHealth #HealthAdvocacy #HealthScience

Promotional WHN graphic on a white background. Large headline reads “Find your place at the World Health Network.” Below are three columns of team options labeled #act, #growth, and #community, each shown as stacked rounded buttons. A bright yellow banner across the lower middle says, “Join a team. Contribute your skills. Help protect public health.” Small footer text explains WHN’s mission. Full text (as shown in image): whn.global Find your place at the World Health Network #act Community Action (Gateway) Infection Prevention Campaigns Team Relations Team Weekly Action Team Advocacy Team German Team Scanning Team #growth Welcome Team (Gateway) Strategic Direction Team (Gateway) Team-Building Team Events Team Awareness Team #community Daily Call (Gateway) WHN Cafe Community Zone Social Events COVID Meetups Activities [partially obscured] Activities Wellness Activities Join a team. Contribute your skills. Help protect public health. The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.

There’s no one way to contribute to public health — and that’s exactly why WHN has so many teams.

From action and advocacy to science, platforms, communications, growth, and community care, there’s a place for every skill set and capacity.

WHN Slack Workspace - WHN Welcome to the heart of collaboration at the World Health Network! Our Slack workspace is where projects come to life and ideas turn into action. Here’s what you’ll find inside: Slack is our core plat...

To join:

Sign up for WHN Slack: whn.global/whn-slack-wo...

Introduce yourself and share your language(s).

Let’s make reliable health information accessible to everyone.

#PublicHealth

Square graphic on a black background. Top left: “whn.global”. Top right: “WHN Teams”. Large headline in yellow says: “Want to help WHN in your language?” Below, white text reads: “We’re looking for people who want to help expand access to accurate public health information by translating, connecting, and amplifying it in their local communities.” Near the bottom are two overlapping speech-bubble icons: a yellow bubble in front/left and an orange bubble behind/right. Bottom center footer text: “World Health Network - Science for a safer, healthier world.”

Square graphic on a black background. Top left: “whn.global”. Top right: “WHN Teams”. Large centered headline in white: “WHN is looking for…” Below are five role headings in yellow, each followed by white bullet-style items separated by centered dots: Translation Helpers Quick turns · Proofreading · Glossary consistency Local Outreach Letters to media/health orgs · Follow-ups Bridge-Builders Connect WHN with local groups · experts · communities Content Scouts Find local studies/news · Share key context Organizers Keep tasks moving At lower right, a tilted white label with orange text reads: “See caption for instructions to join”. Bottom center footer text: “World Health Network - Science for a safer, healthier world.”

Want to help expand access to accurate public health information in your language?

WHN Language Teams translate, connect, and amplify science-based guidance in communities around the world.

Square graphic with a dark blue/gray background. Top left reads “whn.global”; top right reads “Clean Air.” Large tilted green banner headline: “Ventilation” isn’t just opening a window. Below, a CO₂ monitor screen shows 811 CO2 ppm with status Normal, time 13:54, and POA 84. Other readings on the screen: 36 (Noise, dB), 44.1 (RH, %), 3 (PM2.5, µg/m³), 24.0 (Temp, °C), 3 (PM10, µg/m³), 93 (eTVOC, VOC Index). Bottom text says: “Although that helps, real ventilation is about airflow: how much clean air moves through a space. More clean air means a safer space. CO₂ monitors show if fresh air is flowing — or if it’s time to do more.” Footer: “World Health Network - Science for a safer, healthier world.”

Ventilation plays an important role in preventing airborne infections. Opening a window helps, but real ventilation is about consistent airflow. CO₂ monitors can give a simple signal of how much shared air is building up indoors.

Share to help raise awareness. 💨🌿

#CleanAir #CO2Monitor #Ventilation

Photo of four athletes seated at a press conference table, all wearing face masks, with microphones in front of them. A blue backdrop behind them shows sponsor logos (including P&G, Samsung, TCL, Visa, Salomon) and Olympic branding. WHN branding “whn.global” appears at the top left. Large yellow text over the lower half reads: “Olympians are still masking in 2026” Smaller white text below reads: “At the Winter Olympics in Italy, some athletes are still masking and isolating, aware that COVID and other respiratory illnesses are not over.” Footer text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

At parts of the Winter Olympics in Italy, COVID precautions remain, grounded in the reality that respiratory illness is still circulating. When your lungs are your livelihood, prevention is part of performance.

#COVID #COVID19 #PublicHealth #InfectionPrevention #Olympics #LongCOVID #MaskUp #N95

(...) and safety-net hospital funding is protected through 2028. Together, these measures help ensure continuity of care, especially for people with chronic or complex health needs, while reducing unnecessary exposure to illness.

#PublicHealth #Medicare #Medicaid #Telehealth #Telehealthcare

Photo of an older woman smiling and waving during a video call on a smartphone (a clinician appears on the phone screen). WHN branding at top. Overlaid text reads: “If you rely on telehealth or hospital-at-home care, access is continuing for at least two years” Smaller text reads: “Many people were concerned about possible disruptions to telehealth, hospital-at-home care, and essential health services. Recent federal funding decisions ensure these programs will continue, preventing sudden gaps in care patients rely on daily.” Footer text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

White slide with WHN branding at top left. Heading reads: “What this means for patients and families” Subheading: “Current protections help ensure:” Bullet points read: “Telehealth access through Medicare continues through December 31, 2027, so people can keep seeing providers remotely.” “Hospital-at-Home programs remain available through September 30, 2030, supporting care outside traditional hospital settings.” “Planned cuts to safety-net hospitals are eliminated through FY 2028, helping prevent sudden service loss.” “These measures support care continuity for people on Medicare and Medicaid, including those with complex or chronic conditions.” Paragraph below reads: “These protections help prevent interruptions that can delay care or worsen health outcomes. For many people, remote care and home-based treatment are important ways to get access to care and reduce unnecessary exposure to disease.” Footer text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Many people worried about disruptions to telehealth, hospital-at-home care, and essential services — but key protections are staying in place.

Telehealth access through Medicare continues through 2027, hospital-at-home programs extend through 2030, (...)

Long COVID is Not Psychosomatic - WHN This post is part of a new blog series focusing on long COVID. See parts 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6. Long COVID is a complex chronic illness. Its symptoms can be highly inconsistent, and with no diagnostic tes...

(...) reflecting an individual’s lived experience and review of current research.

Read full post here: whn.global/long-covid-i...

#LongCOVID #LongCOVIDAwareness #COVID19 #COVID #PublicHealth #InfectionPrevention

Graphic from WHN (whn.global). Background shows two black-and-white brain scan images at the top. A white banner reads: “This post is adapted from a Voices submission on the WHN website, authored by an individual drawing on personal experience and research.” Main text on a yellow panel over a teal background says: “Long COVID is not ‘all in your head’.” Below: “Long COVID is a complex, chronic illness with real, measurable physical effects. Yet millions of people are still told their symptoms are caused by stress, anxiety, or mindset — not disease.” Footer text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

WHN graphic (whn.global) on a white background with a large yellow highlighted headline: “Research increasingly links Long COVID to physical mechanisms, including:” Bullet list: “viral persistence”; “immune and autoimmune dysfunction”; “nervous system injury”; “mitochondrial damage”; “endocrine disruption”; “vascular injury and microclotting”. Bold text below: “This is not psychosomatic illness. It is a biological condition affecting multiple systems in the body.” At the bottom are two images: a close-up illustration/photo of mitochondria on the left and a human neck/throat image with the thyroid area highlighted on the right. Footer text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

WHN graphic (whn.global) with a solid yellow background and large headline: “Preventing COVID-19 reduces the risk of Long COVID.” Bold paragraph: “Long COVID arises from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Reducing exposure to the virus is therefore a primary prevention strategy.” Next paragraph: “Evidence-based measures — including clean indoor air, respiratory protection, testing, and staying home when sick — lower transmission risk and reduce the likelihood of long-term health impacts.” Final line: “Preventing infection protects both individual and population health.” Footer text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Long COVID is not psychosomatic. It is a complex, multisystem condition with physical causes documented across growing bodies of research. Preventing COVID-19 infections remains one of the most effective ways to reduce long-term harm.

Shared from the WHN Voices section — (...)

Square graphic with “whn.global” at top left over a dark, grayscale background image suggestive of a detention setting (fence/bars). Centered text reads: “World Health Network Statement on Detention Practices and Protection of Life” and, in large pink type: “The World Health Network exists to protect life and health. That obligation applies regardless of nationality, legal status, or political context.” Below, in smaller white text: “Detention in facilities that lack enforceable standards of medical care, safety, transparency, and accountability poses a high and foreseeable risk to human life and health.” Footer text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Square graphic with “whn.global” at top left on a dark background. Large pink text reads: “When individuals are deprived of liberty, the detaining authority assumes full responsibility for their survival, wellbeing, and protection from harm.” Below, white text: “Current detention practices associated with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, including the use of for-profit detention facilities, have resulted in preventable illness, injury, and death.” Another white paragraph reads: “The confinement of children in such settings poses significant physical and psychological health risks including interference with education, and violates established standards of health protection, ethics, and duty of care.” Bottom portion contains a photo of a building sign and seal reading “U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.” Footer text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Square graphic with “whn.global” at top left on a dark background. Large white heading: “From a public health and ethical standpoint:” Followed by bullets: • “Children should never be held in detention environments that place them at risk of physical or psychological harm.” • “No system that profits from detention can be relied upon to safeguard health without strict, enforceable standards, and independent oversight.” • “Any form of detention must meet non-negotiable requirements for medical care, infection prevention, transparency, and independent oversight.” • “Practices that foreseeably result in serious harm or death are not tenable under any circumstances.” In red text near the bottom: “This statement is not about immigration policy, enforcement priorities, or political affiliation. It is about the basic conditions required to protect human life and health.” Footer text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Preventable illness, injury, and death are not acceptable outcomes of detention.

Read the full statement here: whn.global/scientific/s...

#PublicHealth #InfectionPrevention #HumanRights

Square graphic with “whn.global” in the top-left on a dark charcoal background. Large green headline reads: “It’s not ‘flu season.’ It’s stacked transmission.” Below, white text says: “Multiple respiratory pathogens are spreading at the same time— flu, COVID, RSV, measles, and more.” Under the text is a photo of a person in a black baseball cap holding a tissue to their nose/sneezing. Footer in small white text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Square text-only graphic on a dark charcoal background with “whn.global” in the top-left. Large green headline reads: “When illnesses overlap, harm doesn’t just add up — it multiplies.” Below in white text: “More strain on healthcare. More missed work + school. More long-term health impact. More confusion and burnout.” Then: “And eventually… we start treating preventable harm as inevitable.” (with “preventable harm” and “inevitable.” highlighted in green). Footer in small white text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Square graphic on a dark charcoal background with “whn.global” in the top-left. Large green headline reads: “Prevention exists, and it works.” Below, white paragraph text says: “Respirator-grade masks provide respiratory protection against inhalation of airborne pathogens. Masking is one tool among several, alongside ventilation, filtration, testing, and isolation protocols.” Beneath the text is a photo of a white respirator-style mask (N95-type) lying on a wooden tabletop with bright yellow straps. Footer in small white text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

This isn’t just “flu season.” It’s multiple pathogens circulating at once — and the harm adds up fast.

Respirator-grade masks provide respiratory protection against inhalation of airborne pathogens. Layered prevention works: masking + ventilation + filtration + testing + isolation protocols.

Square graphic with a dark charcoal background and the white text logo “whn.global” at top left. Large pink headline: “New Kids’ Zone Magazine issue is here!” Below in white text: “The WHN Kids’ Zone Magazine is a free, downloadable resource created to help kids feel connected, empowered, and proud of living COVID-conscious.” Centered is a thumbnail of the magazine cover with a pink background and blue border. On the cover, top left: “FEBRUARY 2026” and “WORLD HEALTH NETWORK”; top right: “ISSUE 19.” Large title: “KIDS’ ZONE” with subtitle “COVID-CONSCIOUS MAGAZINE.” The cover art shows a sailboat/ship illustration. A banner near the bottom reads: “CARING FOR OTHERS EDITION.” Left-side cover topics list: “ADAPTING TRADITIONS,” “CONNECTIONS IN THE BRAIN,” “CORRELATION VS. CAUSATION,” “STORIES AND RECIPES,” “… AND MORE INSIDE!” On the right side of the cover: “CHECK US OUT ONLINE AT: WHN.global/kidsZone.” Bottom right of the cover includes a Kids’ Zone / World Health Network globe logo and the words: “EXPLORE | SHARE | CONNECT.” To the left of the cover thumbnail is a pale yellow sticker that says: “Download for free at whn.global/kidszone” (with “kidszone” in blue). Along the bottom of the graphic, in small white text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

WHN’s Kids’ Zone Magazine is a free, downloadable issue packed with kid-friendly stories, art, science, and COVID-conscious lifestyle ideas made for families who are still choosing care.

Download the latest issue for free + explore past editions anytime: whn.global/kidszone/

Photo of a healthcare worker vaccinating a child while a woman holds the child on her lap. Over the image is a large yellow headline about measles vaccination in South Carolina, plus a smaller white subheadline and the WHN footer. Text on image: whn.global South Carolina medical professionals say the measles vaccine is available right now— and they want the community to use it. Health leaders say vaccine hesitancy is still a major issue — and they’re working to understand why some people remain unvaccinated as cases keep rising. The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.

Dark graphic with a large yellow quote recommending measles vaccination, attributed to a South Carolina pharmacist. Smaller white text explains South Carolina Department of Public Health MMR guidance. A partially visible vaccine vial appears in the lower right. Text on image: whn.global “The vaccine is available right now and I recommend that as many people that can get the vaccine that are, have no proof of immunity, should get the vaccine.” – Pharmacist Prital Mehta at Prime Family Pharmacy in Rock Hill The South Carolina Department of Public Health recommends that children receive their first and second doses between ages 1 and 17, while adults should be vaccinated based on their age, needs, and profession. Doctors typically advise giving the first dose at 12–15 months, followed by a second dose at 4–6 years old. (On vial, partially visible): MMR / Measles Mumps / Rubella / Vaccine / 20 ml / RX 0… The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.

Dark graphic with a large yellow headline explaining that vaccination protects people who can’t be vaccinated. White text explains why (pregnancy/immunocompromised) and emphasizes “community immunization,” followed by a concluding statement and the WHN footer. Text on image: whn.global Getting vaccinated helps protect people who can’t get vaccinated. Some individuals can’t safely receive the MMR vaccine, including pregnant people and/or immunocompromised people. That’s why doctors emphasize community immunization: when more people are protected, it reduces spread and helps shield vulnerable people from being exposed. Public health officials say vaccination is the best tool to prevent the outbreak from spreading further. The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.

Measles cases are rising in South Carolina — but medical professionals say the MMR vaccine is available right now and remains the strongest protection. Protect yourself, and help protect the people around you who can’t be vaccinated.

#Measles #PublicHealth #VaccinesSaveLives #Vaccines #Vaccination

Square WHN graphic in grayscale showing an empty hospital corridor with a gurney in the foreground and equipment lining the hallway. Large white serif text overlays the image. Text on image: “whn.global” “This post is from WHN’s Healthcare Safety section and was prepared by the World Health Network for Dr. Jonathan B. Perlin, President & CEO of The Joint Commission.” “Throughout history, foundational public health measures—such as hygiene protocols, vaccination campaigns, and universal blood safety standards—emerged in response to widespread morbidity and mortality. While these measures faced initial resistance, they have since become cornerstones of modern healthcare.” “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Square WHN graphic showing a close-up photo of a white N95-style respirator mask with yellow straps in the background. Large white serif text overlays the image, with a smaller white paragraph below. Text on image: “whn.global” “This post is from WHN’s Healthcare Safety section and was prepared by the World Health Network for Dr. Jonathan B. Perlin, President & CEO of The Joint Commission.” “The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic underscores the urgent need to address address airborne aerosol transmission, especially in healthcare settings, where high-risk individuals are concentrated and healthcare workers face repeated exposure. A study published in JAMA Network Open (2024) found that halting universal masking and SARS-CoV-2 testing in hospitals led to a 25% increase in hospital-onset respiratory viral infections compared to community infections. Reinstating masking reduced these infections by 33%.” “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Square WHN graphic in grayscale showing a hospital room with a patient bed in the foreground and medical equipment along the wall. Large white serif headline text overlays the image, followed by a bulleted list and a website link. Text on image: “whn.global” “This post is from WHN’s Healthcare Safety section and was prepared by the World Health Network for Dr. Jonathan B. Perlin, President & CEO of The Joint Commission.” “To safeguard healthcare environments, it is imperative to transition from reactive source-control policies to proactive systemic public health measures. Healthcare systems must adopt systemic, evidence-based interventions, including: • Universal Respirator Use (N95) • Improved Ventilation Standards (HEPA + air exchange) • Strategic Testing whn.global/importance-of-systemic-public-health-measures-to-mitigate-airborne-infections/” “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Hospitals shouldn’t be a place where patients and healthcare workers get infected.

Preventing airborne infections requires system-level protections, not “optional” measures. Because prevention works—and clean air saves lives.

Read more: whn.global/importance-o...

#N95 #InfectionPrevention

Prevention is critical because every avoided infection reduces the risk of Long COVID.

#LongCOVID #COVID #COVID19 #PublicHealth #DisabilityAwareness #InfectionPrevention #HealthcareHeroes

At the same time, the pressure to “carry on” can be intense—driven by professional identity, staffing shortages, and fear of being seen as unreliable. Without clear Long COVID guidance, workplace adjustments can become inconsistent, slow, and stressful for everyone involved.

Graphic with the whn.global logo at top left. Background photo shows a healthcare worker in teal scrubs sitting on the floor in a hospital corridor, leaning against a wall and wearing a white respirator mask and hair cover. Overlaid text reads: “Long COVID is reshaping healthcare work, and workers are paying the price” Smaller text reads: “A 2025 qualitative study published in BMC Health Services Research examined how Long COVID affects healthcare workers professionally, emotionally, and structurally.” Footer text reads: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Graphic with the whn.global logo at top left. Dark background with a thin yellow border around a large text box. Main text reads: “What happens when healthcare workers develop Long COVID — and are expected to keep the system running anyway?” Smaller text reads: “Using in-depth interviews conducted over 14 months, researchers explored:” Bullet points read: • “how long COVID alters professional identity” • “how work expectations collide with symptoms” • “what support exists” Final text reads: “Participants described navigating Long COVID without clear guidance, while still feeling pressure to perform.” Footer text reads: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Graphic with the whn.global logo at top left. Dark background. Large quote reads: “You just have to get on with it… Nothing else you can do.” Smaller text reads: “Healthcare workers repeatedly described a sense of obligation to keep working, even when symptoms were severe.” Body text reads: “At work, Long COVID forced reduced hours, role changes, remote work, or phased returns. Flexible arrangements helped some, but support was uneven.” Final line reads: “Some felt genuinely supported — others described accommodations as “a Band-Aid.”” Footer text reads: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Graphic with the whn.global logo at top left. Background is a grayscale close-up of a healthcare worker adjusting a respirator mask. Headline text reads: “Healthcare workers are still paying the price of repeated exposure to COVID.” Text reads: “Using in-depth interviews conducted over 14 months, researchers explored:” Bullet points read: • “preventing COVID infections through proven measures” • “recognizing long COVID as an occupational health issue” • “ending stigma” • “protecting workers without punishment” Closing text reads: “Long COVID is not an individual failure. It’s a systems failure, and it’s solvable.” Footer text reads: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Long COVID doesn’t only affect health—it reshapes work. Many healthcare workers describe ongoing symptoms that change how they function day to day, forcing reduced hours, amended duties, or a phased return.

Remote work is no longer an emergency measure, it’s a long-term strategy for workforce resilience and public health.

Read the full update with sources:
whn.global/newsletter/u...

#LongCOVID #COVID #COVID19 #RemoteWork #WFH #PublicHealth

A dark, moody photo of a person sitting at a desk in front of a window with blinds, shown mostly in silhouette. Top-left text reads “whn.global”. Large headline in black text on bright yellow highlight bars says: “In-person office work remains far below pre-pandemic levels.” Smaller yellow text below reads: “Despite political and executive pressure to return to offices, remote work remains a defining feature of how people work — and live.” Bottom footer text reads: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

A dim photo of an empty office with rows of cubicles and ceiling lights, fading into the background. Top-left text reads “whn.global”. Large headline in black text on bright yellow highlight bars says: “Return to in-office work has been linked to lower productivity and a high attrition rate.” Smaller yellow text below reads: “While remote work is often viewed as a hallmark of the ‘pandemic era,’ it was already gaining traction in certain industries prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. In sectors like tech, consulting, and creative industries, more than 5% of the workforce was working remotely even before the pandemic.” Bottom footer text reads: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

A photo of a man wearing sunglasses working on a laptop outdoors, holding a cup, with a blurred forest background. Top-left text reads “whn.global”. Large headline in black text on bright yellow highlight bars says: “During the early days of the pandemic, productivity surged as employees worked longer hours without typical office interruptions, while also enjoying improvements to various aspects of mental health.” Smaller yellow text below reads: “Despite concerns from high-profile executives about remote work’s impact on collaboration and company culture, the ability to work remotely improves employee retention without damaging performance.” Bottom footer text reads: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

A dark photo of a person slumped forward at a desk with their head resting on their arm near a computer keyboard, suggesting exhaustion or illness. Top-left text reads “whn.global”. Large headline in black text on bright yellow highlight bars says: “A significant portion of the workforce is now living with Long COVID, which can affect every organ system and make in-person work difficult or impossible.” Smaller yellow text below reads: “Remote work allows affected employees to remain productive, manage symptoms, and reduce the risk of reinfection — protecting both individual health and workplace stability.” Bottom footer text reads: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Remote work was framed as a temporary response, but the data show a lasting shift. Office attendance has not returned to pre-pandemic levels. Evidence points to higher retention, stable productivity, reduced infection risk, and critical support for workers affected by Long COVID.

Experts Call For N95s Over Surgical Masks As Flu, Covid Viruses Spread World Health Network experts urge WHO to make N95, KN95, or FFP2 respirators the standard for protection for healthcare workers, not inferior surgical masks.

Experts call for N95s over surgical masks as flu and COVID viruses spread.

“From an economic perspective alone, the WHN makes a compelling case for respirators as the standard of care for healthcare workers” — @drjudystone.bsky.social via @forbes.com
www.forbes.com/sites/judyst...

Graphic on a dark background with several prevention tools arranged around the edges: two COVID-19 Ag rapid tests, a vaccine vial labeled “COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS VACCINE,” a rectangular HEPA filter, an air purifier, and an N95-style respirator mask. Center text in large pink letters reads: “Protection works best when it’s layered.” The WHN logo “whn.global” appears at the top left. Small text along the bottom reads: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Informational graphic on a dark background with the WHN logo “whn.global” at top left. Large pink title reads: “The Five Pillars of Prevention”. Below, white text says: “If one pillar is weak, others can be strengthened. Better masks can offset poor ventilation. More ventilation can reduce reliance on individual masking. Layering creates flexibility without sacrificing safety.” In the center are five labeled pill-shaped boxes stacked vertically: “Masking”, “Ventilation”, “Social distancing”, “Testing”, “Vaccination”. A yellow starburst on the left reads: “Prevention is a system—not a single action.” Bottom italic text reads: “Effective against COVID, flu, RSV, and other airborne threats.”

Stopping transmission takes more than one tool. WHN’s Five Pillars of Prevention show how layered protections—masking, ventilation, distancing, testing, and vaccination—work together to reduce the spread of COVID and other airborne viruses.

Read more: whn.global/stop-transmi...

Square graphic with a photo background of people wearing face masks on a city street near a crosswalk, with buildings and a pedestrian signal in the distance. Top left: “whn.global”. Large yellow text on a dark translucent rectangle reads: “The start of a new year is an opportunity to make choices that protect health—not just individually, but across our communities.” Smaller yellow text below reads: “Infectious diseases spread through shared air and shared spaces, shaped by everyday choices. When health is protected collectively, everyone benefits.” Bottom white text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Square graphic on a dark textured background. Top left: “whn.global”. Large yellow headline text reads: “COVID continues to circulate widely, alongside influenza, RSV, measles, and other emerging threats.” White text below reads: “Improving indoor air quality—by increasing ventilation, using HEPA filtration, or employing low-cost options like Corsi-Rosenthal boxes—reduces exposure for everyone present.” Another white paragraph reads: “Wearing a well-fitting mask in crowded or indoor public settings further lowers risk, especially during periods of high transmission or when vulnerable individuals are present.” Yellow italic text near the bottom reads: “Risk reduction works best when multiple strategies are used together!” Along the bottom are three images: a box-style air filter (Corsi-Rosenthal box), a rectangular air filter, and a white N95 respirator mask.

A new year brings new routines — but staying healthy isn’t about perfection. It’s about small, practical choices that protect ourselves and the people around us.

Read: Don’t “Drop the Ball” on Staying Healthy in the New Year: whn.global/dont-drop-th...

Graphic with the text “whn.global” at top left. Headline: “Face masks ‘inadequate’ and should be swapped for respirators, WHO is advised”. Subheadline: “Experts are urging guideline changes on what health professionals should wear to protect against flu-like illnesses including Covid”. Below is a side-by-side photo: on the left, a man wearing a blue surgical mask; on the right, a person wearing a white FFP2-style respirator and a black hat and scarf, facing each other in profile. Caption under the photo: “Surgical masks, such as the one on the left, which became ubiquitous during Covid, should be replaced by respirators like the FFP2 face mask, right. Composite: Robin Utrecht/Shutterstock”. Bottom text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

Graphic with the text “whn.global” at top left. Centered excerpt text reads: “The WHO has been criticised for being slow to describe Covid-19 as spreading via ‘airborne’ particles and the letter also calls for it to revisit earlier statements and ‘unambiguously inform the public that it spreads via airborne respiratory particles’.” Next paragraph: “Prof Trisha Greenhalgh of the University of Oxford, whose research is cited extensively in the letter and is one of its signatories, said: ‘A germ that does not get inside someone cannot make them sick. By sealing against the face, respirators force airflow to pass through them, filtering out the airborne germs. Respirators are designed to fit closely around the face and meet high filtration standards. Medical masks, in contrast, fit loosely and leak extensively.’” Final paragraph: “The letter’s supporters include members of the World Health Network, prominent US epidemiologist Eric Feigl-Ding, and Guardian columnist George Monbiot.” Bottom text: “The World Health Network is a network devoted to global compassion—working together to inspire collective action through science for a safer, healthier world.”

World Health Network was featured in The Guardian as experts urge the WHO to update global guidance: surgical masks are inadequate, and respirators should be standard protection in healthcare settings.

Evidence-based public health matters.

Read the full article here
theguardian.com/global-devel...

Open Letter to WHO: A Call for the Universal use of Respirators in Healthcare - WHN January 7, 2026 The letter below (a button to download it as a .pdf file is at the bottom of this page) was sent to seven top officials at the World Health Organization on Wednesday 7 January.  We wil...

The World Health Network’s open letter calling for respirators as the default protection in healthcare is also covered by BMJ.

Reporting by Elisabeth Mahase situates respirator use as an occupational health and patient safety issue.
bmj.com/content/392/...