The administration of US President Donald Trump plans to cut financial support for Gavi, a global organisation that helps provide vaccines for children in developing nations, according to a document reviewed by Reuters.
Additionally, the administration aimed to scale back efforts to combat malaria, marking a shift in US global health priorities. The document, first reported by The New York Times, indicated that while funding cuts would affect certain public health initiatives, the US would continue supporting grants for HIV and tuberculosis treatment, as well as food aid for countries affected by civil conflicts and natural disasters.
The US Health and Human Services Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the proposed changes. Gavi, which has played a crucial role in immunisation efforts worldwide, particularly in low-income countries, relies on donor contributions to fund its vaccine programs.
The proposed cuts raised concerns among public health experts and humanitarian organisations, who warned that reducing support for vaccine programs and malaria prevention efforts could lead to increased disease outbreaks and setbacks in global health progress.
Melissa Enoch
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