US Halts Collaboration with WHO: What This Means for Public Health

Impact of US Severing Ties with WHO on Global Health Initiatives

In a significant policy shift, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been directed to immediately cease all collaborations with the World Health Organization (WHO). This directive, issued by CDC official John Nkengasong, instructs agency staff to halt their work with the WHO and await further guidance.

This move follows President Donald Trump’s executive order to withdraw the United States from the WHO, citing dissatisfaction with the organization’s handling of global health issues. The withdrawal process, which requires a one-year notice and settlement of financial obligations, is set to be completed by January 22, 2026.

The immediate cessation of collaboration is expected to disrupt efforts in combating global health threats, including outbreaks of diseases like the Marburg virus, mpox, and avian influenza. Experts had anticipated a more gradual disengagement, making the abrupt halt particularly unexpected.

This decision aligns with the administration’s broader policy changes, including a freeze on foreign aid spending that affects critical health programs such as the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The suspension of funding for PEPFAR, which provides HIV medication to over 20 million people worldwide, has raised concerns about potential negative impacts on global health initiatives.

The halt in cooperation between the CDC and WHO marks a significant change in U.S. involvement in global health governance, with potential far-reaching consequences for international public health efforts.