WHOs constitution was ratified on April 7, 1948, marking its official establishment.
WHO uses these data to inform disease prevention guidelines, such as vaccination standards.
WHOs research extends beyond personal health concerns to encompass issues that impact community health.
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For example, WHOs research led to recommendations related to clean air and water standards in 2018.
Who is in Charge?
WHOs structure includes an executive board comprised of 34 technically qualified representatives from the various Member States.
These members generally possess an extensive background in clinical or public health.
The WHA elects a Director-General every five years.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus was elected in 2017 for a term that expires in 2022.
An Ethiopian, Ghebreyesus is the first WHO Director-General elected from the groups African region.
WHO also organizes numerous committees and working groups, often dedicated to single-interest initiatives like road safety.
Members
The WHA currently consists of 194 members, one designee from each Member State.
Funding
WHO is funded by its member states through assessed and voluntary contributions.
The assessed contribution represents the equivalent of membership dues.
The U.S. has always been WHOs largest funder.
The biennial operating budget of WHO for 2020 and 2021 is $4.84 billion.
This group brings WHOs mission and resources to all of the Americas.
WHOs work in the U.S. includes providing public health surveillance data to inform decision-making during the COVID-19 pandemic.
It has successfully identified and responded to previous health emergencies.
Ebola
In 2014, theEbola viruscaused a large outbreak in western Africa.
WHO provided research, prevention and care guidelines, and public health education materials to guide decision-making.
For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit ourcoronavirus news page.
Kaiser Family Foundation.The U.S. Government and the World Health Organization.
Remarks by President Trump in Press Briefing.
Pan American Health Organization.
Encyclopedia Britannica.World Health Organization.
