In a sudden move, the United States has ceased its collaborative efforts with the World Health Organization (WHO) as confirmed by a U.S. health official. The directive to stop all work with WHO came through a memo issued by John Nkengasong, a senior official at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The memo, dispatched to senior agency leaders on Sunday night, affects all CDC staff involved in WHO collaborations.
The development follows President Trump's executive order last week to commence the U.S.'s withdrawal process from WHO. While it requires a one-year notice and congressional approval, the immediate halt has raised concerns about its impact on global health initiatives. The U.S. must also fulfill its financial commitments for the current fiscal year before the withdrawal can be finalized.
The stoppage has significant implications, particularly in Africa, where joint efforts with WHO are crucial in tackling outbreaks such as the Marburg virus and mpox. Dr. Jeffrey Klausner, a public health expert from the University of Southern California, emphasized the gravity of the situation.
"Stopping communications and meetings with WHO is a big problem."
- Dr. Jeffrey Klausner
Dr. Klausner, who learned about the cessation from a contact within CDC, expressed surprise at the abruptness of the decision.
"People thought there would be a slow withdrawal. This has really caught everyone with their pants down."
- Dr. Jeffrey Klausner
Historically, collaboration with WHO has enabled the U.S. to stay informed about new diagnostics and treatments, as well as emerging global health threats, which is vital for safeguarding Americans domestically and overseas. The sudden stoppage disrupts this critical flow of information.
"Talking to WHO is a two-way street,"
- Dr. Jeffrey Klausner
As of now, officials from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have not provided comments on the directive or its broader implications. The cessation of U.S.-WHO engagements is expected to impact not only ongoing health projects but also future international health strategies.
