CDC’s work with WHO comes to a halt after Trump orders withdrawal

America’s federal health agency, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has been ordered to suspend its work with the World Health Organization (WHO). Experts warn the move could disrupt collaborations on global virus outbreaks, including the recent bird flu.

In a memo to staff reviewed by the Washington Post, the CDC’s deputy director instructed personnel to await further guidance regarding their interactions with WHO. The memo stated work must cease “through technical working groups, coordinating centers, advisory boards and cooperative agreements,” both in person and virtually.

Last week, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to officially withdraw the United States from WHO. The order cites WHO’s mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and its failure to avoid political influence as part of the reason for the decision.

Under the terms of the order, the U.S. must notify WHO one year before the withdrawal takes effect. However, the decision is not yet final –– Congress must approve the move, and the U.S. must fulfill any outstanding financial obligations before its departure.

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