Latest Health News
US and Kenya Sign Major 'America First' Global Health Deal
The US government and Kenya have inaugurated the first of many expected 'America First' global health agreements, with the US contributing $1.7 billion and Kenya $850 million. The deal focuses on disease prevention and treatment, including HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, primarily supporting faith-based medical providers and clinics under Kenya's health insurance system. Other African countries are expected to sign similar agreements, except Nigeria and South Africa due to political differences.
WHO Launches Comprehensive Strategy for Coronavirus Threat Management 2025ā2030
The World Health Organization released a unified strategic framework addressing multiple coronavirus threats including COVID-19 and MERS. This marks a shift towards sustainable, integrated disease management, encouraging national authorities to build resilient health systems for current and future outbreaks. The plan expands global coronavirus surveillance via the CoViNet network and integrates approaches with influenza monitoring.
Western Pacific Region Conducts Annual Pandemic Preparedness Simulation
Thirty-one countries in the WHO Western Pacific Region participated in the IHR Exercise Crystal to test and enhance readiness against future pandemics. The exercise strengthens multi-sector coordination and communication, emphasizing regional solidarity and improved interoperability for effective health emergency responses.
New Malaria Tools Save Over One Million Lives Amidst Rising Drug Resistance
WHO reports that newly developed tools contributed to saving a million lives from malaria in the past year. However, gains are threatened by increasing drug resistance, underscoring the need for continued innovation and vigilance in malaria control efforts.
First Reported Marburg Virus Outbreak in Ethiopia Sparks Urgent Response
Ethiopia is facing its first Marburg virus outbreak with enhanced measures including case isolation, contact tracing, and traveler screening. The CDC notes a low risk of US spread but urges healthcare providers to consider Marburg in febrile patients with recent travel to Ethiopia.
Gavi Strengthens Immunisation Systems Amid Rising Global Challenges
Gavi emphasizes evidence-driven policy analysis and advocacy to reinforce immunization programs in supported countries. The approach aims to sustain global health security despite geopolitical, economic, and climate-related challenges, with African regions experiencing numerous outbreaks and humanitarian crises reported by WHO.
WHO Expands Coronavirus Surveillance Network to Bolster Global Monitoring
Building on its strategic plan, WHO has increased the membership of its Coronavirus Network (CoViNet) to 45 national labs across human, animal, and environmental health sectors, with 11 more labs expected to join in 2025. This network enhances global detection and response to coronavirus threats.
WHO Western Pacific Encourages Regional Coordination for Health Emergencies
Following simulation exercises, Western Pacific countries endorse a new coordination mechanism to improve emergency response efficiency. This initiative promotes investment in national health capacities and unified action during future public health crises.
US Global Health Strategy Continues to Focus on Bilateral Partnerships
The US is advancing its 'America First' global health strategy through bilateral agreements that build on decades of prior investments. This approach aims to transition technical assistance to partner countries to strengthen local health systems and disease control capabilities.
Photo Camp Empowers Youth to Link Climate Change and Health in Asia-Pacific
A collaboration between ministries of health, the National Geographic Society, and WHO enables youth in Asia-Pacific to document and communicate the health impacts of climate change. This initiative supports advocacy and community engagement for climate resilience and health protection.