Latest Health News
WHO Launches World Malaria Day 2026 Campaign
The World Health Organization launched the 'Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must.' campaign on World Malaria Day 2026, highlighting advances like vaccines in 25 countries protecting 10 million children yearly and next-generation nets comprising 84% of new distributions. Since 2000, 2.3 billion cases and 14 million deaths have been averted, with 47 countries certified malaria-free.
Despite progress, a US$5.4 billion funding shortfall threatens gains.
37 Countries Report Fewer Than 1000 Malaria Cases in 2024
WHO reports 37 countries had fewer than 1000 malaria cases in 2024, and 47 nations have been certified malaria-free, including two in 2024 and three in 2025. The Greater Mekong Subregion saw cases drop nearly 90% despite drug resistance.
However, 610,000 deaths occurred in 2024, up slightly from 2023.
WHO Supports Malaria Program Review in Pakistan
In April 2026, WHO backed a country-led malaria programme review visiting health facilities across provinces to gather evidence and urge intensified efforts against resurgence. The review aims to strengthen prevention amid global funding challenges.
This aligns with WHO's broader malaria elimination push.
Philippines Launches Program Against Child Hunger and Malnutrition
A new program targeting child hunger and malnutrition was launched in Philippine provinces on April 26, 2026. It addresses critical health issues in underserved areas through targeted interventions.
This initiative responds to ongoing nutritional challenges in the region.
US HIV Chief Science Officer Resigns, Criticizes Trump Policies
Mike Reid, chief science officer for PEPFAR, quit this week, rebuking Trump administration cuts to foreign aid and using aid for US commercial leverage. He stayed 18 months to protect programs but departed by mutual agreement after admitting he could no longer provide nonpartisan advice.
HIV testing dropped sharply last year due to PEPFAR interruptions.
PEPFAR Credited with Saving 26 Million Lives Amid Cuts
PEPFAR has saved 26 million lives and prevented 7.8 million HIV infections in babies since 2003, despite recent disruptions from US aid cuts. The program continues in African nations post-USAID dismantling, but testing numbers fell sharply.
Reid's exit highlights tensions in global health funding.
AHF Nigeria Urges WHO to Finalize Pandemic Treaty
AIDS Healthcare Foundation Nigeria called on WHO Member States to seal a strong Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing agreement before Geneva talks. The binding deal is seen as urgent for future pandemic preparedness.
This push comes amid ongoing global health funding debates.
Massive Funding Gap Hinders Malaria Elimination Efforts
Malaria response faced a US$3.9 billion funding in 2024, half the US$9.3 billion target, with a projected US$5.4 billion shortfall. Global aid cuts have disrupted surveillance and campaigns.
WHO emphasizes nationally-led programs to bridge gaps.
New Malaria Tools in Development: Vaccines, Nets, and Genetics
Innovations like new vaccines, treatments, long-acting injectables, and genetically modified mosquitoes are advancing rapidly. Next-generation mosquito nets now dominate distributions at 84%.
These tools make ending malaria in our lifetime possible.
Trump Administration Dismantles USAID, Impacts Global Health
President Trump dismantled USAID, shifting oversight of programs like PEPFAR to the State Department. Officials claim life-saving work continues, but experts warn of risks to HIV efforts in Africa.
This reflects broader cuts to foreign assistance.
WHO Highlights Malaria Progress in Drug-Resistant Regions
The Greater Mekong Subregion demonstrates elimination feasibility with 90% case reduction despite drug resistance. This success underscores potential for tough areas worldwide.
WHO calls for sustained investment to replicate gains.
Global Aid Fragility Threatens Malaria and HIV Programs
Recent cuts in global health aid have undone progress in malaria surveillance and HIV testing. Both malaria and PEPFAR face under-resourcing amid geopolitical shifts.
Partners urge renewed commitment to avoid resurgence.