The US withdrawal from the WHO has left the global health agency with a serious fund crunch. The agency’s appeal for funds on its website to deal with emergencies speaks of the challenges it faces after the withdrawal of its largest benefactor. The first major effect of Washington’s exit was the whittling down of the WHO’s budget for 2026-27 by $4 billion. The shortfall could also affect the health responses in conflict zones such as Gaza and Sudan. The fund and personnel crunch could affect immunisation drives and responses to outbreaks in areas prone to infectious diseases.

Source: Indian Express February 13, 2026 08:25 UTC