Health system development is a key to effective detection, response, and control of any outbreak.

The multiple roles that women can play in a society if given the opportunity is really a tremendous asset.

This change to a higher phase of alert is a signal to governments, to ministries of health and other ministries, to the pharmaceutical industry and the business community that certain actions now should be undertaken with increased urgency.

I have a reputation for being a straight-talker.

The international community should treat this as a window of opportunity to ramp up preparedness and response.

I am personally overseeing changes that include the establishment of a global health emergency workforce.

I want us to be judged by the impact we have on the health of the people of Africa and the health of women. Improvements in the health of the people of Africa and the health of women are key indicators of the performance of WHO. This is a health organization for the whole world... But we must focus our attention on the people in greatest need.