Pandemics affect both health and wealth worldwide. Inequality increases the impact of these outbreaks. When the rich get better health care, the poor suffer more. In recent pandemics, such as COVID-19 and HIV, poorer communities had higher death rates.
Governments must change their focus on health. Instead of only improving technologies, they need to ensure everyone can benefit. For example, sharing knowledge and technology can help poorer countries make their own vaccines.
Difficult words
- pandemic — A disease that spreads widely.pandemics
- wealth — Money and valuable resources.
- community — A group of people living together.communities
- government — The group that controls a country.Governments
- technology — Tools and machines that help solve problems.technologies
- vaccine — A substance to protect against disease.vaccines
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How can sharing technology help poorer countries?
- What are some ways to reduce health inequality?
- Why is it important for everyone to benefit from health improvements?
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