The WHO has warned that U.S. funding cuts may delay global polio eradication efforts, especially affecting initiatives in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The cessation of UNICEF’s polio grant illustrates significant financial setbacks, with a projected gap of $133 million this year. Without restored funding, there is a risk of increased polio cases and escalating eradication costs.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has cautioned that the eradication of polio may face delays due to potential funding cuts from the United States, which could amount to hundreds of millions of dollars over several years. The WHO, in partnership with UNICEF and the Gates Foundation, has been working to eliminate polio, particularly in Afghanistan and Pakistan, where it remains a significant health threat. The recent termination of UNICEF’s polio grant, attributed to a 90% reduction of USAID funding by the State Department, exemplifies these financial challenges.
Hamid Jafari, WHO’s director of the polio eradication program for the Eastern Mediterranean region, indicated that failing to address this funding shortfall could lead to an increase in polio cases and significant additional costs in the eradication effort. He expressed hope that other funding sources could be identified to support essential personnel and surveillance efforts, despite the difficult circumstances.
Although vaccination campaigns in Afghanistan and Pakistan are expected to continue, the overall funding gap remains concerning. The partnership is already grappling with a projected $2.4 billion shortfall by 2029, leading to an acknowledgment that eradicating polio will cost more and take longer than initially anticipated. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia recently contributed $500 million to assist with polio eradication efforts.
In summary, funding cuts from the United States threaten the progress of polio eradication initiatives in Afghanistan and Pakistan, potentially leading to increased paralysis in children. The WHO and its partners are urgently seeking alternative funding sources to sustain critical vaccination campaigns and other activities. The situation emphasizes the need for international support to address the ongoing health crisis.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
