U.S. completes withdrawal from the World Health Organization, CDC says
Federal agencies announced the U.S. has formally exited the WHO after a yearlong withdrawal process, drawing warnings from global health officials that the move could weaken coordination during outbreaks.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the State Department said the United States has completed its withdrawal from the World Health Organization, according to a CDC statement dated January 22, 2026.
The announcement described a yearlong transition that included ending funding, recalling personnel, and shifting work previously coordinated through WHO to other arrangements and direct engagements.
WHO responded by expressing regret and warning that the decision could make both the U.S. and the world less safe, saying the issue would be considered by the WHO Executive Board beginning February 2, 2026.