Infectious Disease and Pandemics

The Challenge

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed every vulnerability in our global health care system. Even in the most well-resourced economies, patient care amidst the COVID-19 response became extremely challenging. In low-resource settings, the challenge was even greater, with shortages of health care professionals and equipment further complicating the response. 

The negative effects of climate change on health are expected to worsen, and studies show that despite sub-Saharan Africa contributing minimally to carbon emissions, it will experience some of the greatest health and economic impacts. We must prepare now for future infectious disease outbreaks and pandemics, ensuring that health care professionals have the right training, support, resources, and professional networks for an effective response.

Seed’s Unique Approach

Seed’s greatest contribution to managing infectious diseases and advancing pandemic preparedness starts far before emergency response is needed. Our approach focuses on increasing the quantity and quality of physicians, nurses, and midwives in the health systems where we work. Seed offers training on how to identify and manage malaria, tuberculosis, HIV, Ebola, cholera, COVID-19, and more. We also train health care workers how to protect themselves and their colleagues while offering top-notch patient care. 

When disease outbreaks and pandemics do strike, Seed leans into our partnerships. We are often one of the first calls made by ministries of health seeking training and technical support. With our partners, we offer in-person and remote training to frontline health care workers, developing bespoke modules based on what is most appropriate for the conditions and context. Seed also supports health ministry coordination and crisis management efforts, including contact tracing, ambulance transfers, and personal protective equipment donations.