Latest Health News
WHO Global Summit Charts Bold Future for Traditional Medicine
The second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine concluded in New Delhi, drawing over 16,000 online registrations and 800 delegates from 100+ countries. It emphasized integrating safe, evidence-based traditional medicine into health systems via the Delhi Declaration, with 26 Member States committing to regulation, research, and data systems. WHO launched a new advisory group on priorities like evidence generation and digital innovation.
US Shifts to 'America First' Global Health Strategy with African Deals
The US signed health MOUs with 9 African countries like Mozambique ($1.8B for HIV/malaria) and Lesotho ($232M), mirroring Trump priorities amid 49% funding cuts from 2024. Countries must boost domestic spending; South Africa excluded due to disputes despite high HIV rates. This departs from prior NGO-focused aid, aiming to protect Americans from threats.
Global Health Community Alarmed by US Aid Cuts and WHO Withdrawal
The Union expressed concerns over US halting global aid and withdrawing from WHO, with 65% of African TB programs reporting negative impacts. Despite funding turmoil and a fatal earthquake, achievements included the Integrated Lung Health Resolution at WHO Assembly. Over 3,000 experts attended the Union World Conference on Lung Health in Copenhagen.
WHO South-East Asia Advances Influenza and RSV Surveillance
All 11 Member States established National Influenza Centres by 2023; 2024 pilots in Nepal, Thailand, Bangladesh tested revised terms. Efforts integrate RSV surveillance into GISRS, with Phase III starting 2025 in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan. Focus on Global Influenza Strategy synergies for pandemic preparedness.
Climate Change Drives $12.5 Trillion Health Economic Losses by 2050
Resilient health investments urged as climate impacts could cause 14.5M deaths and $1.5T productivity losses in key sectors. Telehealth market to grow to $790B by 2032; G7/G20/COP28 commitments include $1B+ financing for climate-adapted tech. World Economic Forum launches workstream on investing in resilient health.
Central African Republic Faces Multiple Outbreaks Amid Crisis
CAR grapples with protracted conflict displacing 2.4M, outbreaks of measles, pertussis, meningitis, rabies, Mpox, and vaccine-derived polio in 2025. Only 39.8% of 1014 health facilities fully operational; high cholera reintroduction risk from neighbors. Communicable diseases dominate amid rising NCDs.
WHO Western Pacific Prepares for Pandemics and NCDs
Western Pacific countries conducted simulation exercises and endorsed coordination for emergencies. Agreements signed to strengthen health workforce against NCDs; focus on climate-health blueprint amid HIV resurgence. Collaborating centres boost innovation for health unity.
WHO Calls for Action on Alcohol Harms and Regulation
WHO's 'Alcohol Leaves a Mark' campaign urges collective action to expose harms and push stronger regulations globally. Part of broader Western Pacific health priorities addressing modern threats.
Youth Empowered to Document Climate-Health Stories
WHO, ministries, and National Geographic ran a Photo Camp for youth to tell climate change and health stories, especially in Asia-Pacific frontlines. Unveils ambitious blueprint for climate-health action.
Planetary Health Approach to South Asia Disaster Management
2025 floods in Punjab/Sindh highlight need for anticipatory resilience in disaster management via planetary health. Shifts from crisis response to proactive strategies in vital regions.
US Restores Global Health Leadership Post-Funding Critique
State Department announces shift from 'writing checks to NGOs' to results-focused global health spending. Aligns with new bilateral strategies launched September 2025.