Global Health and Policy Updates: Spotlight on Sudan, COVID-19 Origins, and International Health Decisions

The WHO urges an end to violence in Sudan following a deadly hospital drone strike. The CIA suggests COVID-19 could have lab origins. Trump might rejoin the WHO after exiting over pandemic handling. The FDA okays Alzheimer's drug maintenance dosing. Fentanyl deaths persist in New Mexico, and China bars livestock imports from various regions.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is calling for an immediate halt to attacks on healthcare workers and facilities in Sudan. This demand follows a tragic drone strike on a hospital in the North Darfur region, resulting in over 70 deaths and numerous injuries. The Saudi Teaching Maternal Hospital, the sole functional hospital in El Fasher, offers essential services in various medical fields and serves as a vital resource for the community.

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has shifted its stance, now suggesting that the COVID-19 pandemic likely originated from a laboratory incident, rather than naturally. This significant statement comes after years of uncertainty and coincides with a directive from former CIA Director William Burns in the final weeks of the Biden administration, as revealed by a senior official.

In a potential policy reversal, former President Donald Trump announced he might reconsider the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization. His initial decision stemmed from perceived mismanagement of the COVID-19 pandemic by the WHO. Speaking at a Las Vegas rally, Trump indicated that rejoining could be an option if changes were made within the organization.

(With inputs from agencies.)