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As the world grapples with escalating health crises, political shifts and funding cuts are reshaping the future of global healthcare. The US bird flu response stalls, leaving experts worried about transparency and preparedness, while UK and US funding withdrawals threaten lifesaving vaccination and HIV/AIDS programs. Meanwhile, conflict in the DRC fuels deadly disease outbreaks, and Russia rejects WHO’s call for updated nuclear health research. Amid these tensions, WHO pushes forward an ambitious plan to cut pollution deaths by 50%, though concerns over fairness and funding loom large. Stay informed as we unpack these critical developments shaping public health worldwide.

The US bird flu response is lagging, with CDC updates stalled since January. Experts warn that poor communication and lack of global collaboration could weaken public health efforts, especially as the outbreak continues to impact humans and industries. HEALTH POLICY WATCH

The UK plans to cut funding for Gavi, a global vaccination group that has immunized over a billion children. Aid groups warn this, along with the US halting vaccine aid, could endanger lives as budget cuts divert funds to asylum costs. THE GUARDIAN

Russia rejects WHO’s push for updated nuclear health data. It argues existing research is enough, despite support from Pacific nations and others highlighting ongoing health crises in nuclear test zones. HEALTH POLICY WATCH

Conflict fuels a deadly surge in diseases in eastern DRC, WHO warns.
Cholera, malaria, TB, and mpox outbreaks have intensified, with disrupted vaccinations, overwhelmed hospitals, and thousands of casualties amid ongoing violence. REUTERS

Trump’s $4bn funding cuts threaten lifesaving medical research in the US. Scientists warn that reducing indirect NIH funding from an average of 27% to 15% will hinder universities’ ability to maintain research infrastructure, ultimately slowing scientific progress and limiting new treatments for patients. FINANCIAL TIMES

Over six million lives are at risk if US funding for HIV/AIDS stops, warns UNAIDS. Despite a waiver, treatment disruptions and clinic setbacks could cause a 400% rise in AIDS deaths, jeopardizing global efforts to combat the disease. REUTERS

USAID staff urged to defy Trump's stop-work order. A USAID team lead in the Middle East and North Africa called on diplomats and aid workers to refuse compliance, calling the order unlawful and a threat to due process, while a federal judge temporarily blocked the administration's attempt to place thousands on leave and recall overseas staff. DEVEX

WHO aims to cut pollution deaths by 50% by 2040! The new air pollution roadmap received strong support but sparked equity concerns, with China and African nations stressing fair responsibility. A climate-health action plan moved forward amid debates on mitigation vs. resilience, while funding remains uncertain after the US withdrawal. HEALTH POLICY WATCH