Epidemics have led to an annual loss of 17,549 health workers worldwide from 1990 to 2019.

The study reveals that South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa bore the brunt of these losses, highlighting a stark disparity in healthcare resilience among lower-income countries. The economic fallout is profound, as fewer health workers exacerbate existing inequalities and strain already fragile systems.

In essence, regions with weaker economies have seen their healthcare infrastructures further weakened by epidemic outbreaks over the past three decades.

The long-term vulnerability of these regions to future epidemics remains high due to persistent shortages in medical personnel, which could lead to a cycle of health crises.

What is the long-term climate outlook for this region?

Healthcare systems in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa face an uphill battle as they struggle with ongoing workforce deficits. The lack of medical personnel will likely worsen if no significant interventions are made, potentially leading to more severe health crises during future epidemics.

The outlook is grim without substantial improvements.