US withdrawal from WHO jeopardizes global effort to eliminate hepatitis: Hepatitis Fund

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

GENEVA (AA) - The Hepatitis Fund said Thursday it is alarmed by US President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), warning it would impact shared health missions.

"As our crucial ally, WHO has driven the global effort to eliminate hepatitis. This decision significantly impacts our shared mission," the global funding platform to end hepatitis said in a statement.

"Cutting US funding to WHO weakens the fight against hepatitis, especially in low- and middle-income countries, which face even greater challenges in addressing this disease with reduced support," it said, adding that the decision puts all health NGOs at risk as existing donors may shy away from backing innovative solutions.

The WHO provides essential guidelines for hepatitis care, it said. "Its (WHO) global hepatitis report from April last year highlights just how vital its work is in shaping our strategies."

The organization based in Geneva urged continued US support and collaboration with WHO and other partners to protect global health.

"Together, we can achieve hepatitis elimination and ensure a healthier future for all," it said.

"World Health ripped us off, everybody rips off the United States. It's not going to happen anymore," Trump said at the signing of the executive order to leave the UN health agency on Monday.​​​​​​​