What's next for WHO.

The article reports on the death of Director General Lee Jong-wook of the World Health Organization (WHO), on the morning of the World Health Assembly. WHO continues to function and has maintained momentum due to Lee's management style and also in the way WHO is finding solutions to global health problems. The H5N1 avian influenza has caused WHO to use direct engagement in the voluntary implementation of the revised International Health Regulations. Potential epidemics are now detected through improved surveillance and early warning systems. Reforms introduced by Lee include the 10-Year global health agenda, Engaging for Health, for WHO, its Member States, and partners. Preparedness for natural disasters--climactic, seismic or infectious--are discussed.