Latest Health News
World Asthma Day 2026: Urgent Call for Access to Anti-Inflammatory Inhalers
The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) marks World Asthma Day on May 5, 2026, with the theme 'Access to anti-inflammatory inhalers for everyone with asthma – still an urgent need'. GINA emphasizes ensuring all asthma patients can access essential inhaled medications to control the disease and treat attacks. This initiative underscores ongoing global disparities in asthma care.
Humanitarian Groups Alarm Over Worsening Attacks on Medical Care in Conflicts
The Red Cross, WHO, and Médecins Sans Frontières denounce a 'failure of political will' to halt attacks on healthcare worldwide, marking 10 years since UN Resolution 2286. In 2025, WHO reported 1,348 attacks killing 1,981 people, with Sudan most affected; 2026 has seen 521 attacks in 13 countries killing 408.
Ukraine reports a 20% rise in attacks compared to 2024.
Sudan Tops List of Health Facility Attacks with 1,620 Killed in 2025
Sudan led 2025's health attacks with 1,620 deaths from 1,348 global incidents reported by WHO. Other heavily impacted countries include Myanmar (148 deaths), Palestine (125), Syria (41), and Ukraine (19).
Groups highlight airstrikes, shellings, and drone strikes on hospitals and ambulances.
Ukraine Sees 20% Rise in Healthcare Attacks in 2026
Ukraine experienced nearly 20% more healthcare attacks in 2026 compared to 2024, per WHO data. Since Russia's 2022 invasion, at least 2,881 attacks have targeted health workers, facilities, ambulances, and warehouses.
MSF notes peaks in 2024-2025 with similar 2026 levels.
EAC Showcases Outbreak Preparedness at World Health Summit Regional Meeting
The East African Community (EAC) demonstrated readiness for future outbreaks at the World Health Summit Regional Meeting held April 27-29, 2026. This event focused on regional health strategies amid global threats.
It highlights proactive measures in Africa.
Global Disease Outbreaks in 2026 Prompt Stricter Travel Health Precautions
Ongoing disease outbreaks worldwide in 2026 are leading to new, stricter travel guidelines and health measures. These changes are reshaping international travel permanently.
Travelers must stay informed on updated precautions.
WHO Documents 521 Health Attacks in 13 Countries So Far in 2026
The WHO has registered 521 attacks on healthcare in 13 countries in 2026, resulting in 408 deaths. The pace shows no signs of slowing, with incidents including damage to facilities and injuries to workers and patients.
This follows 1,348 attacks in 2025.
MSF Reports Peaking Health Attacks in Ukraine, 2024-2026
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) indicates health attack incidents in Ukraine peaked in 2024 and 2025, with 2026 preliminary data matching prior years. Attacks continue to destroy facilities and harm medical staff and patients.
Joint statement blames political failure.
Attacks on Healthcare Worsen Despite UN Resolution 2286
Ten years after UN Security Council Resolution 2286, attacks on medical personnel and infrastructure have intensified globally. Over 80 states committed to protection, yet the situation is worse than a decade ago.
Examples span Syria, Yemen, Ukraine, Palestine, Myanmar, and more.
KFF Discusses AI's Role and Limits in Health on May 5, 2026
KFF's 'The Business of Health' with Chip Kahn on May 5, 2026, explores what AI can and cannot do in healthcare. The video addresses AI's potential and boundaries in the sector.
It provides insights into technology's evolving health impact.
Global Calls to Protect Health Workers and Facilities in Conflicts
Top groups like Red Cross, WHO, and MSF urge action against attacks on clearly marked ambulances and hospitals in Cameroon, Haiti, Lebanon, and beyond. They stress it's a 'failure of political will,' not law.
2026 data shows continued high risks.