Latest Health News
World Malaria Day 2026 Launched by WHO
The WHO launched the 'Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must.' campaign on World Malaria Day 2026, noting 25 countries rolling out vaccines for 10 million children yearly and next-gen nets at 84% of distributions. Since 2000, 2.3 billion cases and 14 million deaths averted; 47 countries malaria-free.
Funding gaps persist at US$5.4 billion shortfall despite progress.
37 Countries Report Under 1000 Malaria Cases in 2024
37 countries reported fewer than 1000 malaria cases in 2024, with 47 certified malaria-free including two in 2024 and three in 2025. Greater Mekong Subregion saw 90% case drop despite drug resistance.
New tools like genetic mosquito mods and injectables in development.
Lancet Refuses US Senate Testimony on COVID-19 Origins
The Lancet refused to testify in a US Senate inquiry on COVID-19 origins, as part of key global health updates. This highlights ongoing debates in pandemic investigations.
Other news includes Purdue Pharma's opioid crisis sentence delay.
Purdue Pharma Sentence Delayed in Opioid Crisis
Purdue Pharma's sentencing in the opioid crisis has been delayed, featured in global health news roundup. Developments in medical coverage innovations also noted.
The update covers multiple health policy shifts.
PEPFAR Chief Science Officer Quits, Criticizes Trump Cuts
Mike Reid, chief science officer for PEPFAR, resigned criticizing Trump administration's foreign aid cuts and use of aid for US interests. He stayed 18 months to protect programs; departed by mutual agreement after admitting bias.
HIV testing dropped sharply last year amid interruptions.
PEPFAR Saves 26 Million Lives Since 2003 Amid Disruptions
PEPFAR credited with saving 26 million lives and preventing 7.8 million infant HIV infections since 2003. Trump dismantled USAID but pledged PEPFAR continuation in Africa.
State Department data shows testing declines from funding issues.
Group B Streptococcus Causes 150,000 Infant Deaths Yearly
GBS leads to over 500,000 premature births and 150,000 stillbirths/infant deaths annually, causing sepsis, pneumonia, meningitis. 10-30% pregnant women carry it; 40-75% of infants from untreated mothers infected.
Leading cause of newborn bacterial meningitis worldwide.
WHO Advances GBS Vaccines and Meningitis Roadmap
WHO supports GBS vaccine development for pregnant women and tracks antibiotic resistance for global vaccines. 2020 Defeating Meningitis by 2030 roadmap targets GBS prevention.
30% GBS stillbirths in healthy pregnancies; urgent prediction tools needed.
Thailand Hosts Health and Wellness Trade Meet 2026
Amazing Thailand Health and Wellness Trade Meet 2026 in Bangkok strengthens wellness tourism with high-value buyers and clinics. Event boosts Thailand's global leadership in healing tourism.
Focuses on innovative health services.
Philippines Sees Surge in Medical Tourism
Philippines medical tourism grows with affordable world-class care attracting international patients. Seamless services drive new era of global healthcare travel.
Steady increase in healthcare visitors noted.
STUF Forum Spotlights Women's Empowerment in Taiwan Health
STUF United Fund forum highlights women's role in institutional change and Taiwan's international health presence. Event emphasizes global women's empowerment in health sectors.
Taiwan's growing stage presence noted.