WHO's Global Lab Network Faces Crisis as US Withdraws Support

Geneva-based WHO warns its crucial measles and rubella laboratory network risks collapse without replacement funding for US contribution

Key Takeaways

WHO's Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network (Gremlin) faces potential collapse due to US withdrawal of support
The network consists of 760 labs worldwide and tests about 500,000 patient samples annually
The US was WHO's biggest donor, contributing $1.3 billion between 2022-2023

By The Numbers

$8 million

Annual funding needed for Gremlin network operation

124

Number of people infected in Texas measles outbreak

760

Number of laboratories in global network

They Said

"Protecting this resource is absolutely imperative"
— Matthew Ferrari, Director of Pennsylvania State University's Centre for Infectious Disease Dynamics

"The network is at risk of collapse unless alternative funding is identified"
— Margaret Harris, WHO spokesperson

Crisis Overview

Network Impact and Importance

Funding Challenges

Global Health Implications

Swiss Perspective

Sources & References

WHO’s global lab network faces collapse without new funding

SWI swissinfo.ch