Latest Health News
WHO Launches First-Ever Implementation Handbook for Hepatitis B and C Elimination
The World Health Organization released consolidated guidance and an implementation handbook on hepatitis B and C to support countries in expanding prevention, testing, and treatment efforts. This marks the first such comprehensive resource aimed at accelerating country action toward hepatitis elimination.
The handbook provides practical tools for integrating services into national health systems.
WHO and Global Fund Webinar on High-Quality Grant Proposals for HIV, TB, and RSSH
WHO and The Global Fund are hosting webinars on March 4-5, 2026, to guide countries in developing strong Grant Cycle 8 funding proposals for HIV, TB, and Resilient and Sustainable Systems for Health. Sessions cover core guidance, WHO technical updates on HIV and TB, and health system strengthening integration.
The events aim to align proposals with global standards and national priorities.
Global Excess Mortality from COVID-19 Estimated Two to Four Times Higher Than Reported
The Economist's model estimates total excess deaths during the pandemic are two to four times higher than confirmed COVID-19 deaths globally, due to underreporting and poor data. WHO estimates for 2020-2021 also show substantially higher excess mortality across 194 countries.
These figures highlight the pandemic's full death toll beyond official counts, with significant uncertainty from missing data.
CSIS Discusses Measles Outbreaks and Elimination Efforts in North America
A CSIS transcript from February 20, 2026, addresses ongoing measles outbreaks and progress toward elimination in North America. Experts analyze vaccination gaps and public health responses amid rising cases.
The discussion underscores challenges in maintaining elimination status post-pandemic.
Hidden Ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy Raises Gut Health Concerns
Scientists at Adelaide University identified a hidden ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy tablets that prompts new questions about potential gut health impacts. The finding, reported March 1, 2026, calls for further investigation into these popular weight-loss drugs.
It highlights unintended effects on microbiome and digestion.
Huge Influx of Aid Urgently Needed in Gaza Amid Catastrophic Conditions
Restrictive rules forcing 37 NGOs to leave Palestine by March 1, 2026, threaten to slash already insufficient humanitarian aid in Gaza. Catastrophic health and living conditions demand urgent government intervention to sustain medical and food support.
The aid crisis exacerbates risks of disease outbreaks and malnutrition.
MSF Winds Down Operations in Mueda, Transitioning to Local Health Authorities
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is ending activities in Mueda, Mozambique, after handing over to local health teams as of February 26, 2026. This shift aims to build sustainable local capacity amid ongoing humanitarian needs.
MSF continues advocacy for Gaza and other crises.
U.S.-Israel Strikes on Iran Disrupt Oil Flows, Posing Health Supply Chain Risks
Operation Epic Fury has closed the Strait of Hormuz, halting 20% of global oil shipments and threatening medical supply chains worldwide. Potential Iranian retaliation on infrastructure could worsen fuel shortages critical for hospitals and aid delivery.
Health systems in affected regions face heightened vulnerabilities.
International Travel Disruptions Impact Health Access and Vaccinations
U.S. confirmation on March 1, 2026, of severe Middle East airspace disruptions is hindering global travel, affecting medical evacuations and vaccine distribution. Broader implications include delays in international health worker deployments.
Travelers advised to monitor advisories for health risks.
Gaza Activism and Media Spotlight on Health Crises Amid Conflict
MSF highlights Gaza's health emergencies through activism, linking to broader regional conflicts like U.S.-Israel actions against Iran. Ongoing violence exacerbates disease spread and aid blockages in humanitarian hotspots.
Calls intensify for protection of medical facilities.