US aid cuts threaten global polio eradication efforts: WHO

The suspension of US aid may hinder the anti-polio drive in Pakistan and Afghanistan, two countries still grappling with the disease as funds for this year have yet to be transferred, according to a World Health Organization (WHO) representative.

The WHO polio eradication program director, Hamid Jafferi, stated that the United States' $133 million funding for the polio eradication program has not yet been received this year.

Highlighting the consequences of delaying or halting funding, he warned, "Aid is being cut off, which may put off the eradication plan, and the number of disabled children will increase." 

According to Jafferi, if efforts to eradicate polio are delayed, its consequences will become more severe. "We are also looking at other sources of support to continue anti-polio activities, and the polio vaccination campaign in Afghanistan and Pakistan will be made safe." 

Read: Pakistani travelers to Saudi Arabia must now present polio vaccination certificate

He expressed hope that the US will restore support for the polio eradication campaign. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia donated $500 million to the polio campaign last week. 

However, the Gates Foundation, which works with the WHO, noted that no organisation could compensated the shortfall caused by the withdrawl of US aid. 

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation voiced concerns over the US withdrawal from WHO and the suspension of international aid, warning of severe consequences on global health efforts.