Nigeria, Oct. 14 -- The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has adopted a political declaration on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, reaffirming the need for stronger international cooperation and sustained investment to protect the world against future pandemics.

The declaration was adopted on Tuesday following a vote in which 153 countries voted in favour, three against and two abstentions, according to the voting record provided.

The United States, Israel and Argentina voted against the declaration, while New Zealand and Paraguay abstained.

The declaration outlines measures to strengthen disease surveillance, improve national health systems and ensure equitable access to vaccines, treatments and other essential medi...