Malaga: The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that cuts in funding for life-saving global health projects by some countries, such as the United States, could severely impact vaccination programs for children and adults against deadly diseases. The recent abrupt changes in donor budgets and capacity in global health have put a severe strain on immunization programs, particularly affecting measles prevention efforts, WHO said in a statement.

According to Oman News Agency, WHO emphasized the need for all children to receive two doses of the measles vaccine, noting that the disease remains a leading cause of death among children worldwide. In this context, Director of the WHO's Immunization Department Kate O'Brien attributed the decline in vaccination coverage to fears spread by people with misinformation about the measles vaccine. This misinformation has created an environment in which measles cases have reappeared in countries worldwide after the disease had been completely eliminated.

Measles is a highly contagious, airborne viral disease, with symptoms including fever and a rash. Vaccination is the best form of prevention, as there is no specific treatment for the disease after infection. Following his inauguration last January, US President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders, including Washington's withdrawal from the World Health Organization. The United States is the largest financial supporter of the UN organization, contributing approximately 18 percent of its total funding.