Categories: International

WHO officially declares COVID-19 as a pandemic

The World Health Organization has officially declared COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus as a pandemic as it spreads freely in more than 100 countries around the world.

The virus, which originated in China, has infected more than 113,000 people worldwide and killed more than 4,000, according to the WHO. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines a pandemic as an epidemic a sudden increase in the number of cases of a disease that has “spread over several countries or continents, usually affecting a large number of people.”

What is a pandemic?

According to the World Health Organization, a pandemic is declared when a new disease for which people do not have immunity spreads around the world beyond expectations. Declaring a pandemic has nothing to do with changes to the characteristics of a disease, but is instead associated with concerns over its geographic spread.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Headquarters of WHO: Geneva, Switzerland; Director general of WHO: Tedros Adhanom.

Find More International News

Sumit Arora

As a team lead and current affairs writer at Adda247, I am responsible for researching and producing engaging, informative content designed to assist candidates in preparing for national and state-level competitive government exams. I specialize in crafting insightful articles that keep aspirants updated on the latest trends and developments in current affairs. With a strong emphasis on educational excellence, my goal is to equip readers with the knowledge and confidence needed to excel in their exams. Through well-researched and thoughtfully written content, I strive to guide and support candidates on their journey to success.

Recent Posts

Easter Sunday 2026: Meaning, History & Why This Festival Symbolizes Hope and New Beginnings

The Easter Sunday 2026 will be celebrated on the 5th of April. It marks one…

17 hours ago

Weekly Current Affairs One Liners (30th March to 05th of April 2026)

Weekly Current Affairs One-Liners Current Affairs 2026 plays a very important role in competitive examinations…

19 hours ago

ECINet KYC Feature Explained: How Voters Can Check Candidate Details in 2026 Elections

The Election Commission of India has launched the powerful digital initiative which is the 'Know…

1 day ago

BIRAC-BioNEST Incubation Centre Inaugurated at CFTRI by Dr. Jitendra Singh

Honorable Union Minister of Science and Technology the Dr. Jitendra Singh has recently inaugurated the…

1 day ago

Newcastle Disease Spread in Europe 2026: All You Need To Know Here

Recently the Newcastle Disease have spread rapidly the across several European countries and it created…

1 day ago

International Day for Mine Awareness 2026: History, Significance and Objectives

International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action observed every year on April…

2 days ago