GENEVA -- Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday agreed to establishing a new Health Emergencies Programme so as to add operational capabilities for outbreaks and humanitarian emergencies to complement its traditional technical and normative roles.

The move was described as "one of the most profound transformations in the Organization's history."

The new programme is designed to deliver rapid, predictable, and comprehensive support to countries and communities as they prepare for, face or recover from emergencies caused by any type of hazard to human health, whether disease outbreaks, natural or man-made disasters or conflicts.

WHO said it will provide leadership within the context of the International Health Regulations and health, in relation to the broader humanitarian and disaster management system.