Statement from the Society of Healthcare Epidemiology of America Rebuking Pres. Trump’s Announcement on the U.S.’ Involvement in WHO

The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) urges President Trump to reconsider his decision to terminate the US relationship with the WHO. The most effective way to address the evolving needs and concerns of COVID-19 and the emerging threats yet to come is to work together with global partners. Eliminating the US’ involvement in the WHO would leave our country, and the world, more vulnerable to infectious diseases at a time when a comprehensive and coordinated international response is more important than ever before.

As the healthcare community responds to COVID-19 and while global economies begin to re-open in advance of a vaccine or treatment, it is critical that we engage the WHO’s expertise on global coordination of surveillance, monitoring, detection, prevention, research, and response.  Beyond COVID-19, the WHO plays a pivotal role in enabling efforts fighting this and future pandemics. Aligning the United States with international communities in all current and future efforts is in our country’s best interests.

If this announcement goes into effect, SHEA urges Congress to stand against this decision for the health and safety of every global citizen, including Americans.

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The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) is a professional society representing more than 2,000 physicians and other healthcare professionals around the world who possess expertise and passion for healthcare epidemiology, infection prevention, and antimicrobial stewardship. The society’s work improves public health by establishing infection-prevention measures and supporting antibiotic stewardship among healthcare providers, hospitals, and health systems. This is accomplished by leading research studies, translating research into clinical practice, developing evidence-based policies, optimizing antibiotic stewardship, and advancing the field of healthcare epidemiology. SHEA and its members strive to improve patient outcomes and create a safer, healthier future for all. Visit SHEA online at www.shea-online.org, www.facebook.com/SHEApreventingHAIs and https://twitter.com/SHEA_Epi.