Public health programs save millions of lives every year. Vaccination efforts have helped reduce child mortality and prevent the spread of deadly diseases.
But these programs rely on international funding. When governments pull back their support, the consequences can be devastating.
The Trump administration is considering ending U.S. financial contributions to vaccination programs in developing countries.
The New York Times reported on Wednesday that Washington may cut funding for the Vaccine Alliance (GAVI), an international organization that provides vaccines to the world’s poorest children.
A document submitted to Congress outlines a series of budget cuts, including this major withdrawal.
GAVI has been instrumental in vaccinating over a billion children in the past 25 years. It has helped fight diseases like measles, cholera, and yellow fever.
The United States currently covers 13% of GAVI’s budget. If funding is cut, experts warn that millions of children could be left unprotected.
William Moss, an epidemiologist at Johns Hopkins University, says this decision could reverse years of progress.
Preventable diseases could once again become major threats. He also warns that the risk is not limited to developing countries. Infectious diseases spread across borders, and outbreaks in one region can quickly reach the U.S.
Andrew Pollard, a professor at Oxford University, points out that this move follows other financial cuts.
The U.S. has already withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO). He believes this pattern of disengagement could lead to widespread suffering.
Without vaccines, hunger and infections could kill millions.
The proposed cuts extend beyond vaccinations. Other foreign aid programs, managed by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), would also be reduced.
However, some programs would remain in place. The government plans to continue efforts against HIV and tuberculosis.
Food aid would still be provided to countries affected by wars or natural disasters.
A U.S. diplomatic spokesperson confirmed that the leaked document is accurate. He stated that the canceled programs were not aligned with national interests or policy priorities.
If these cuts move forward, global health experts fear the impact could be catastrophic.
Reduced vaccination efforts could undo decades of progress, leaving vulnerable populations at risk.
