US Quits WHO! Experts Warn: "Scientifically Reckless" Move Unleashes Measles Crisis

America Abandons Global Health Body, Faces Immediate Crisis

Washington D.C. just rocked the global health community. The United States officially withdrew from the World Health Organization (WHO) on January 23, 2026. This shocking move has ignited a firestorm of criticism. Experts are calling it "shortsighted and misguided".

The withdrawal's repercussions are already emerging. A massive measles outbreak is now gripping South Carolina. Health officials confirm 700 cases in Spartanburg County alone. This public health emergency directly links to fears of weakened global health efforts.

"Scientifically Reckless" Decision

The US exit from the WHO is a major policy change. It signals a retreat from international health cooperation. Dr. Ronald Nahass, president of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, condemned the decision. He called it "scientifically reckless". Many fear this will cripple crucial global health initiatives. Efforts to eradicate polio, maternal and child health programs, and viral threat research are all at risk.

The withdrawal means the US will no longer officially participate. This includes WHO-sponsored committees and technical working groups. This absence could severely hamper future pandemic responses.

Measles Strikes Back: A Terrifying Resurgence

The timing of the South Carolina measles outbreak is alarming. This highly contagious disease is spreading rapidly. Health officials in South Carolina's Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed 700 cases as of January 23, 2026. Most cases are close contacts. However, public exposure sites indicate widespread community circulation.

• 700 confirmed cases in Spartanburg County.

• Public exposure sites indicate community spread.

• Measles is highly contagious, spreading before symptoms appear.

• The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours.

The resurgence directly correlates with declining vaccination rates. South Carolina's MMR vaccination coverage for kindergarteners dropped to 92.1%. This is down from 95% in the 2019-2020 school year. Experts warn that vaccine-preventable diseases thrive in unvaccinated communities. The US also risks losing its "elimination" status for measles.

Expert Warnings Ignored

Public health experts had pleaded against the withdrawal. They warned it would hobble responses to threats. These warnings appear tragically prophetic with the current measles crisis. The Trump administration's health agencies reportedly "muddled vaccine messaging". This confusion may have contributed to falling vaccination rates.

"This is a wake-up call," said one public health official, who wished to remain anonymous. "Ignoring global health is a recipe for disaster at home."

Broader Health Crisis Echoes

Beyond measles, other health concerns are surfacing.

• UK Norovirus Surge: England saw a 47% surge in norovirus cases in early January 2026. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued urgent warnings. Hospital outbreaks are rising, especially among those over 65. People showing symptoms are urged to stay home.

• Canadian Respiratory Illnesses: Canada is also battling widespread respiratory viruses. Influenza accounts for 54% of recent outbreaks. This is straining emergency rooms, particularly in Alberta.

These concurrent outbreaks highlight the interconnectedness of global health. A retreat from international cooperation could leave nations vulnerable.

What's Next

The US withdrawal from the WHO is irreversible for now. Its full impact will unfold in the coming months and years. Expect intense debate over the decision's wisdom. The South Carolina measles outbreak will test local and federal health responses. Public health officials will push for increased vaccination efforts. The global community watches, bracing for further consequences of a fractured health landscape.