Global Health Events Report: March 2025

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​Global Health Events Report: March 2025

Date: March 30, 2025

​As March winds down, the global health landscape remains as dynamic as ever. From progress on pandemic preparedness to worrying outbreaks, here's a quick roundup of what mattered this month in global health:

COVID-19: Cases Down, But Deaths Up

The good news is that COVID-19 infections are continuing to decline worldwide—down 16% since early February, with fewer people ending up in hospitals or ICUs.
The not-so-good news? Deaths increased by 28% during that same time, totalling around 4,500. It's a stark reminder that even as we transition out of pandemic mode, COVID-19 still poses serious risks, especially to vulnerable populations.
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Influenza Surveillance Gets a Pandemic Upgrade

The WHO is expanding its global flu surveillance system (GISRS) to track more than just influenza. Now, it's including other respiratory threats like SARS-CoV-2. This move could be a game-changer in detecting and responding to future pandemics.

Measles is Back in the U.S. — and It's Deadly

A sobering statistic: 378 measles cases have been reported across 17 U.S. states since January, resulting in the country's first two measles deaths in over a decade. Most of the cases involved unvaccinated children, sparking renewed debates over vaccine hesitancy.
Texas alone reported 259 cases—many linked to three major outbreak clusters.

Infection Control Needs a Boost in Asia-Pacific

A new WHO report reveals significant gaps in infection prevention across several Asia-Pacific countries. In places like Cambodia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, underfunded systems are leaving healthcare workers and patients vulnerable to outbreaks and antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
The WHO calls for urgent investment in training, equipment, and policy reforms.

Toward a Global Pandemic Treaty?
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In a promising development, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros said he's "confident" a historic pandemic treaty will be finalized by May 2025. The goal? To ensure countries are better prepared—and better coordinated—for the next global health crisis.
While political hurdles remain, the momentum feels real.

1. WHO Budget Cuts and Workforce Reductions

The World Health Organization (WHO) announced plans to reduce its budget by 21% and implement significant staff layoffs. This decision follows the United States' withdrawal of funding, citing the WHO's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. The budget for 2026-2027 will decrease from $5.3 billion to $4.2 billion, affecting operations worldwide. Efforts are underway to secure alternative funding sources to mitigate these impacts. 

2. USAID Funding Cuts Threaten Global Health Programs

The U.S. administration's suspension of foreign aid has disrupted the supply of HIV treatments in eight countries, including Haiti, Kenya, and Ukraine. This could lead to over 10 million new HIV infections and three million related deaths. Additionally, programs targeting polio, malaria, and tuberculosis are jeopardised, with the potential closure of 80% of essential health services in Afghanistan. ​

3. Rising Dengue Fever Cases in Spring Break Destinations

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a health alert regarding increased dengue fever activity in U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Travelers are advised to take precautions, including using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. In 2024, over 13 million cases were reported across the Americas and the Caribbean. ​

4. Commemoration of COVID-19 Day of Reflection

On March 9, the UK observed the COVID-19 Day of Reflection, marking five years since the pandemic's onset. The day honored those who lost their lives and acknowledged the efforts of frontline workers. Communities across the nation participated in various commemorative events. ​

5. WHO Launches New Mental Health Policy Guidance

The WHO released new guidance on March 25, calling for urgent reforms in mental health policies globally. The initiative addresses underfunding and gaps in access to quality mental health services, emphasising the need for community-based care and adherence to human rights standards. 

6. Second WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health

Concluding on March 28 in Cartagena, Colombia, the conference saw commitments from over 50 countries and organisations to tackle air pollution. A shared goal was established to reduce health impacts by 50% by 2040, potentially saving millions of lives annually. ​

7. Ongoing Disease Outbreaks

• Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC): A malaria outbreak in the Province of Équateur has resulted in nearly 1,100 cases and over 60 fatalities since January. Efforts are focused on containment and providing medical assistance to affected communities.
• Uganda: An Ebola outbreak has led to 14 identified cases and four deaths as of early March. Health authorities are implementing measures to prevent further spread.​

8. Global Matcha Shortage Anticipated

A significant increase in global demand for matcha has led to an anticipated shortage this spring. Production in Japan has risen substantially, with over half now exported internationally. The shortage is expected to affect higher-quality matcha used in cafes, though relief may come with the spring harvest and government subsidies encouraging increased production.

9. Protests Against Tesla and Elon Musk

Global protests targeted Tesla showrooms in countries including Australia, Switzerland, and the U.S. Demonstrators opposed Elon Musk's involvement in governmental budget cuts and layoffs. The protests reflect broader concerns about changes in public health and social services policy. 

​Final Thoughts

March 2025 has been a month of contrasts: hopeful developments on international cooperation and surveillance and sobering reminders that outbreaks—measles, COVID-19, and more—are still very real. As always, preparedness, strong public health systems, and global solidarity remain the keys to a healthier, safer future.

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