Shannon Hader is deputy executive director of UNAids. She leads UNAids’ efforts in promoting an expanded and integrated United Nations system response to HIV at the country, regional and global levels. Dr Hader holds a degree in biological sciences from Stanford University and doctor of medicine and master of public health degrees from Columbia University. She is board certified in internal medicine, paediatrics and infectious diseases.
International solidarity, addressing inequality and looking beyond health concerns are key to preventing future health emergencies. Just as with HIV, Covid-19 is showing that pandemics and their impacts are about more than just health.