The specificities of different diseases shape the key ethical factors that underpin sound decision-making in health.

Elements of the contexts in which diseases take place, such as the burden and distribution of disease, the effect of social determinants, and measures commonly used to either prevent or treat them, have important ethical implications for the appropriateness of public health measures, implementation, resource allocation, and research. It is vital that these ethical concerns are taken into account by the global health community, including policymakers, researchers and practitioners to balance the interests of those affected and ensure that health responses are effective, proportionate, and fair.

WHO’s Health Ethics and Governance team has worked together with technical units to develop disease specific guidance to support Member States in addressing the unique ethical challenges raised by certain diseases, including tuberculosis, COVID-19, HIV, and Ebola.