Latest Health News
U.S. arranges Ebola exposure response for citizens in Africa
The U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa said Washington has set up a process for Americans requesting help after possible Ebola exposure in the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, or Uganda. The guidance includes quarantine in Kenya for some asymptomatic high-risk cases and aeromedical evacuation for symptomatic or positive cases.
Ongoing Ebola outbreak drives travel and screening measures
The embassy notice points travelers to CDC Ebola guidance, DHS enhanced screening information, and consular health advice, indicating the outbreak remains an active international concern. The alert also advises Americans to enroll in STEP and keep travel documents ready.
UK launches coalition to combat violence against women and girls
On May 20, 2026, the UK convened an International Coalition to End Violence Against Women and Girls, bringing together eight countries. The effort aims to scale prevention and strengthen responses to domestic abuse, sexual violence, and online abuse.
Norway funds WHO emergency care in five African countries
At the World Health Assembly on May 18, 2026, Norway announced NOK30 million for the WHO’s basic emergency care program. The funding is intended to improve life-saving skills in about 1,000 hospitals across five African countries over three years.
European Commission adopts Global Health Resilience Initiative
On May 13, 2026, the European Commission adopted a new Global Health Resilience Initiative focused on prevention, preparedness, and response to future health threats. The strategy also aims to close resilience gaps in health systems.
United States boosts OCHA humanitarian health support
On May 14, 2026, the U.S. announced an additional US$1.8 billion for OCHA pooled funds and hyper-prioritized humanitarian activities. The new money brings total U.S. support for OCHA reform and life-saving assistance programs to US$3.8 billion across 21 countries.
Italy approves major development package including health-linked aid
Italy approved EUR1.7 billion in grants and soft loans under its 2026 development cooperation program on May 15, 2026. The package includes a new EUR15 million emergency allocation for Lebanon, part of broader assistance that can affect health and humanitarian services.
Spain channels aid through WFP for urgent food security needs
On May 8, 2026, Spain’s foreign ministry said it had mobilized EUR7.1 million in humanitarian assistance through the World Food Programme. The funding is intended to address urgent global food insecurity, a major driver of malnutrition and health risk.
Kenya faces controversy over U.S.-linked Ebola quarantine facility
Reports say protests erupted in Kenya over a U.S. Ebola quarantine facility tied to bilateral health agreements, with two people reportedly killed. The dispute has focused on data-sharing, pathogen access, and legal concerns, and Kenya’s High Court suspended the deal.
Debate grows over bilateral health deals and data sovereignty in Africa
A reported set of bilateral health agreements has drawn criticism from African officials over privacy, pathogen sharing, and unequal terms. According to reporting on the Kenya deal, Zimbabwe rejected a similar package and Ghana turned down U.S. funding over data privacy concerns.
WHO and donors emphasize emergency preparedness and response
Recent donor announcements from Norway and the European Commission point to a broader push to strengthen emergency care and health-system resilience. These moves reflect a growing focus on preparedness as outbreaks and humanitarian crises continue to strain public health systems.
Multilateral health funding faces pressure from U.S. withdrawal decisions
A January 7, 2026 presidential memorandum ordered the U.S. to withdraw from 66 international organizations, including 31 UN entities, affecting bodies such as UNFPA and UNFCCC. The move has raised concern among allies and could have downstream implications for global health coordination and financing.