Global COVID-19 Total Tops 2 Million; WHO Responds to U.S. Funding Freeze
“We regret the decision of the President of the United States to order a halt in funding to the World Health Organization,” he said, adding that with support from the US people and its government, the WHO works to improve the health of many of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable populations, tackling not only COVID-19, but also threats such as measles, malaria, Ebola, HIV, polio, and many other diseases and chronic conditions.
Tedros said he is reviewing the impact on the US funding withdrawal on its work and will work with partners to fill any financial gaps to prevent interruptions in its work. He also pushed back on accusations that the WHO is biased toward China. “Our commitment to public health, science and to serving all the people of the world without fear or favor remains absolute,” he said.
He also said that, after the pandemic, member states and independent groups will review the WHO’s response to ensure transparency and accountability, a process that is built into its usual processes. “No doubt, areas for improvement will be identified and there will be lessons for all of us to learn,” Tedros said. “But for now, our focus—my focus—is on stopping this virus and saving lives.”
Russia’s Outbreak Expands
Russia yesterday reported its highest daily case total, adding 3,388 more illnesses for a total of 23,490, the Moscow Times reported. About 14,880 of the cases are in Moscow, but the virus has now been detected in all of the country’s regions, except for Altai in Siberia.
Meanwhile, a surge of cases continued in Turkey, one of the few countries in Europe where leaders didn’t order a lockdown. The country reported 4,281 new cases yesterday, up from 4,062 yesterday, for a total of 69,392 cases, making it the sixth hardest hit European country.
In other European developments yesterday, Germany has fleshed out a draft plan to extend its social distancing measures 2 more weeks until May 3, Reuters reported. The draft proposal agreed on between Chancellor Angela Merkel and state governors would include opening schools gradually, starting on May 4, and requiring schools to have hygiene plans in place. The ban on religious gatherings would remain, but some retailers will be allowed to reopen.
Brazil Ministry Shake-Up, Korean Voting Safety Measures
In other global COVID-19 developments:
· A top Brazilian health official resigned yesterday amid expectations that President Jair Bolsonaro would fire the health minister over disagreements over how to manage the country’s escalating COVID-19 outbreak, Reuters reported. Brazil’s president has repeatedly downplayed the epidemic, promoted unproven drugs, and criticized governors over their lockdown orders.
· South Korea voters took part in a general election yesterday at 14,000 polling places across the country, following strict precautions that included wearing masks, having temperatures checked, using hand sanitizer, wearing gloves, and observing social distancing, Reuters reported.
· The Tour de France yesterday announced that the event will be held Aug 29 to Sep 20, following an announcement from France’s president yesterday that large events remain banned until the middle of July.
