Latest Health News
Lower-Income Countries Set Record US$302 Million Investment in Gavi Vaccines for 2025
Lower-income countries contributed a record US$ 302 million to Gavi-supported vaccines for 2025, despite aid cuts. Over five years, they mobilized US$ 1.1 billion, matching the previous 13 years combined, with projections to double in 2026-2030.
Gavi CEO Dr. Sania Nishtar praised this shift toward sustainable, country-led immunization systems.
California Reports Highest Measles Cases in 7 Years Amid US Surge
California has seen at least 40 confirmed measles cases in 2026, surpassing 2025's total and the highest since 2019. The surge occurs as vaccination rates drop below herd immunity levels nationwide, with 95% of cases among unvaccinated individuals.
Nationally, over 1,714 cases reported this year, nearing 2025's full-year total per CDC data.
WHO: Vaccinations Saved Millions in Africa, But US Aid Cuts Threaten Gains
African vaccination programs saved tens of millions of lives over two decades, including 2 million in 2024 alone. Progress slows due to US aid reductions under Trump's policy and Middle East war disruptions, affecting supply chains.
WHO urges African governments to boost domestic funding after losing 40% of overseas support.
Trump Administration Proposes $1.9 Billion Cut to Global Health Initiative Including PEPFAR
The 2027 US budget proposes slashing $1.9 billion from global health programs, targeting PEPFAR which has saved 25 million lives since 2003. Protesters interrupted testimony chanting support for the AIDS relief program.
This follows broader US pullbacks impacting WHO and other international health efforts.
New Research: Targeting Blood Pressure Below 120 mm Hg Saves More Lives
A Mass General Brigham study shows intensive blood pressure control under 120 mm Hg systolic reduces heart attack, stroke, and heart failure risks more effectively. Benefits outweigh added risks and provide good value, even with imperfect measurements.
Findings published in Annals of Internal Medicine boost confidence for high-risk patients.
Gavi Countries to Double Co-Financing in 2026-2030 Strategic Period
Gavi anticipates total country co-financing will double during 2026-2030, building on US$2.2 billion cumulative by 2025 end. The Leap transformation agenda centers countries in decision-making for self-sustaining programs.
Vaccines generate US$54 per $1 invested, yielding over US$100 billion in returns.
Africa Achieves Polio Eradication and Maternal Tetanus Elimination Milestones
Africa eradicated wild poliovirus in 2020 and eliminated maternal/neonatal tetanus in most countries. Malaria vaccines now roll out in 25 nations, hailed as a major breakthrough by WHO.
However, 10 countries represent 80% of zero-dose children post-COVID setbacks.
US Measles Cases Concentrate in Unvaccinated Children and Young Adults
In California, 85% of 2026 measles cases are under age 20, with 95% unvaccinated or unknown status. A San Francisco infant contracted it internationally, marking the city's first case since 2019.
Experts warn of domestic footholds as national cases approach 2025 totals.
Gavi Immunization Prevents 60% of Outbreak Cases and Deaths in Low-Income Countries
Since 2000, Gavi protected 1.1 billion children, halving childhood mortality and averting outbreaks. Emergency vaccinations reduced cases and deaths by 60% on average.
Domestic financing growth persists despite economic pressures and debt burdens.
WHO Warns of Equity Gaps in African Immunization Amid Fragile Contexts
Progress uneven with slowing rates in remote and fragile areas post-COVID. Gavi's Sania Nishtar stresses reaching all children consistently.
US WHO withdrawal cut 40% of funding, prompting calls for African health budget increases.