Latest Health News
WHO Assembly adopts first-ever global stroke resolution
The Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly approved its first resolution on stroke, aiming to reduce the burden through prevention, acute care, rehabilitation, and stronger health-system readiness. The measure also reinforces accountability under WHO’s wider noncommunicable disease and neurological-disorders plans.
New WHO strategy targets integrated emergency, critical, and operative care
Member States endorsed a new Global Strategy for Integrated Emergency, Critical and Operative (ECO) Care 2026–2035. WHO says the roadmap is designed to help countries deliver more timely, affordable, and quality emergency and critical-care services across all levels of care.
WHO approves first comprehensive resolution on radiation and health
WHO Member States adopted a resolution covering both ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, marking the first time the Assembly has taken a comprehensive global approach to radiation and health. The resolution highlights risks from environmental, occupational, medical, and emergency exposure, including cancer and other acute and long-term effects.
World Health Assembly strengthens global pharmacovigilance systems
Delegates approved a resolution to modernize medicine and vaccine safety monitoring worldwide. It calls for stronger patient reporting, better workforce capacity, and closer cooperation across national, regional, and global levels to improve patient safety and support universal health coverage.
WHO Assembly continues reporting on health conditions in the occupied Palestinian territory
On 21 May, delegates agreed to continue reporting on health conditions in the occupied Palestinian territory, including east Jerusalem, to the next World Health Assembly. The decision proceeds through Executive Board draft resolution EB158.R6.
Ebola outbreak in DRC and Uganda triggers intensified global caution
Health officials and partners are responding to an Ebola outbreak affecting the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, with the Bundibugyo virus identified in the emergency response. MSF says the outbreak is especially difficult because there is no approved treatment or vaccine for this strain, and WHO has declared it a public health emergency of international concern.
MSF scales up response in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo
Doctors Without Borders says it is mobilizing medical, logistical, and support teams to contain the outbreak in Ituri province. The organization reports deploying protective gear, Ebola kits, and additional supplies while providing supportive care focused on fluids, oxygen, and close monitoring.
US embassy updates worldwide caution and arrival restrictions
The U.S. Embassy in Kenya posted a health alert noting worldwide caution and updated public health arrival restrictions. The notice also references enhanced Ebola screening measures, reflecting growing concern about cross-border spread.
Africa CDC briefing highlights urgent Ebola response actions
Africa CDC held a public outbreak update on 23 May, with its director briefing audiences on the latest status of the Ebola disease outbreak. The update followed high-level consultations with Ugandan leadership and regional health ministers, underscoring coordinated regional response efforts.
Rare diseases highlighted as a global health equity issue
IFPMA issued a statement on rare diseases on the margins of the World Health Assembly, framing them as a global health priority linked to equity and inclusion. The group urged stronger attention to the needs of people living with rare conditions.
WHO strengthens global coordination on radiation emergencies and protection
The radiation and health resolution also reaffirms WHO’s leadership in evidence-based guidance and technical support. It calls for stronger coordination with international partners to improve preparedness and response to radiation-related health risks and emergencies.
Regional and international partners mobilize supplies for Ebola containment
MSF reports sending thousands of PPE sets, Ebola kits, and tons of medical and logistical supplies into the response area. The scale-up highlights the urgency of containment efforts in remote and cross-border settings where health systems are under strain.