Simulation Exercises

A Simulation Exercise (SimEx) simulates an emergency situation to which a described or simulated response is made. The purpose of a simulation exercise is to validate and enhance preparedness and response plans, procedures and systems for all hazards and capabilities. WHO defines different types of exercises, including discussion-based table top exercises as well as operations-based exercises such as drills, functional exercises and field/full scale exercises. 

Specifically, simulation exercises aim to:   

1. Review and assess planning assumptions, procedures, operational plans and guidelines and standard operating procedures;

2. Assess and test interoperability between these plans and procedures; 

3. Reveal planning weaknesses and resource gaps;

4. Improve coordination and collaboration;

5. Clarify roles and responsibilities;

6. Practice and clarify chain of command;

7. Develop knowledge and skills for emergency response operations;

8. Familiarize staff with new functions and equipment;

9. Gain recognition and trust in the emergency management processes.

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Teaser Video

Key publications

WHO Simulation Exercise Manual
A practical guide and tool for planning, conducting and evaluating simulation exercises for outbreaks and public health emergency preparedness and response.
Country implementation guidance: after action reviews and simulation exercises under the International Health Regulations 2005 monitoring and evaluation framework (‎IHR MEF)‎

This document provides strategic guidance to countries implementing AAR/SimEx under the IHR MEF, along with relevant information on the planning, executing...

IHR (2005) Core Capacity Workbook: A series of exercises to assist the validation of core capacity implementation levels

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

SimEx online training

The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the terminology, concepts and principles of simulation exercise management in line with the WHO Simulation Exercise Management Manual.

On completion of this online course, you should be able to:

  • Explain the benefits of simulation exercises as used in the public health domain.
  • Demonstrate a general knowledge of the terminology, concepts and principles described in the WHO Exercise Manual (2017).
  • Describe the different phases of the exercise project cycle (planning, conduct and post-exercise).
  • Select the type of exercise appropriate for a specific purpose and objectives.

Expected audience: IHR NFPs, WHO staff, Health professionals and partners, any person interested in public health simulation exercises.

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Access SimEx Courses:

SimEx scenarios - video repository

Generic scenario

1. Country Background - Global Land 1. Country Background - Global Land
2. Emergency Alert 2. Emergency Alert
3. Public Health Social Measures and National Response 3. Public Health Social Measures and National Response
4. Impact on National Response Operation 4. Impact on National Response Operation
5. Operations 5. Operations
6. International Response 6. International Response

Specific scenario

SimEx on SPH Portal

Related activities

Contact

Country Simulation Exercises & Reviews (CER)

Health Security Preparedness (HSP)

Email: [email protected]