International Health Regulations (IHR) 2005

They are a binding legal instrument that prescribes measures to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and its member states for stopping human infectious diseases crossing from one country to another.

The purpose and scope of the IHR is to prevent, protect, control and provide a public health response to the international spread of disease.

This would be in proportion with and be restricted to public health risks, and which avoid unnecessary interference with international traffic and trade.

As the UK is a member of the WHO, it is bound by the IHR 2005. The IHR 2005 came into force generally on 15 June 2007 and replaced the previous IHR 1969.

The IHR 2005 has a much broader scope than the IHR 1969 applying to any disease (including those from new or unknown causes), irrespective of origin or source, that could present significant harm to humans. They address weaknesses learnt in past decades in detecting and responding to disease outbreaks.

More information on the IHR 2005 can be accessed from the WHO website(external link, English only)

The obligations under the IHR 2005 are imposed on the UK as a WHO member state. 

The Welsh Government is responsible for the implementation of those parts of the IHR that cover matters that have been devolved to Wales. The absence of border controls between England and Wales mean that we work closely with the Department of Health to take a sensible and cohesive approach to the implementation of the IHR.

For further information please contact: Health.Protection@Wales.gsi.gov.uk