Latest Health News
U.S. Signs Bilateral MOUs for Global Health Agreements
The U.S. has begun signing bilateral Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with various countries on global health, starting in late 2025, with ongoing processes and implementation planned later this year. This KFF tracker monitors these America First agreements to reshape international health partnerships.
WHO Releases 15-Year Study on Influenza Vaccination in Europe
A new WHO/Europe study highlights seasonal influenza's burden, causing 3-5 million severe cases and up to 650,000 deaths globally yearly, with high impact in Europe measured by disability-adjusted life years. Vaccine doses have doubled since 2008/09, but coverage varies by country income, urging better data reporting and targeting at-risk groups like health workers.
Tajikistan Expands Influenza Vaccination for Health Workers
Tajikistan procured 35,000 influenza vaccine doses in 2025, prioritizing health-care workers to protect them and the health system during seasons and pandemics. Plans aim to double doses by 2030, enhancing pandemic preparedness and global health security.
HHS Secretary RFK Jr. Testifies on Trump's 2027 Budget Request
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testified before Congress on President Trump's 2027 budget, defending NIH cuts and firings amid criticism. Discussions included vaccine cutbacks and their health impacts.
Critics Claim RFK Jr. Policies Have Worsened U.S. Health Metrics
Testimony highlighted concerns that under HHS Secretary RFK Jr., the U.S. has declined on every health metric, with debates over budget cuts affecting public health programs. This comes amid Capitol Hill scrutiny of the Trump administration's health strategy.
Iran War Strains Global Humanitarian Aid in Three Charts
The ongoing Iran conflict disrupts aid with meandering shipping routes and soaring fuel costs, impacting global health funding as shown in end-of-year 2025 estimates. Aid organizations face significant logistical challenges.
Gaza War Causes 42,000 Life-Altering Injuries, Per WHO
Two years into the Gaza conflict, WHO estimates nearly 42,000 people suffer life-altering injuries, straining health systems amid ongoing violence. Health impacts are visualized in three key charts.
Global Aging Plans Gain Traction with 50% Rise in Geriatric Physicians
National aging plans worldwide are advancing, with geriatric physicians increasing 50% from 2020 to 2023 to address growing elderly populations. This trend supports better care for aging demographics.
New Malaria Drug Targets Infants if Health Systems Adapt
A novel malaria drug can treat infants, potentially saving lives from the disease that claims nearly 600,000 annually worldwide. Success depends on health system support for distribution and implementation.
Healthcare in Myanmar Targeted in 1,200 Attacks Since Coup
Since the 2021 coup, nearly 1,200 attacks on health-care workers and facilities have occurred, turning healthcare into a battleground. This endangers lives and disrupts medical services.
Iran War Causes U.S. Fluoride Shortages in Drinking Water
Middle East conflicts, including the Iran war, disrupt fluoride supplies, forcing some U.S. water utilities to struggle maintaining recommended levels. This affects public dental health programs.
White House Pushes Physician Reforms for Health Affordability
The Trump administration promotes physician reforms to boost affordability ahead of midterms, as outlined in a new White House report. Officials aim to shape health care messaging through these strategies.