THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF EPIDEMICS AND PANDEMICS

Epidemics and pandemics are health emergencies — but they are also economic crises. They devastate incomes, raise household costs, strain services and push already-vulnerable people further behind. This guide explains how epidemics and pandemics impact countries, households and individuals, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

This guide also explores how epidemics and pandemics magnify inequalities, having a disproportionate negative impact on “last mile populations” (those who already experience aggravated vulnerabilities, marginalisation or stigma). It also looks at how communities' engagement in pandemic preparedness and response (PPR) can mitigate the negative economic impact of pandemics on last mile populations.