U.S. to Re-Engage With Gavi Amid Ebola Outbreak After Fundin
U.S. to Re-Engage With Gavi Amid Ebola Outbreak After Funding Dispute
WASHINGTON — The Trump administration plans to re-engage with global vaccine alliance Gavi as concerns grow over an expanding Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa, according to comments from Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The move marks a shift after the administration previously halted support tied to disputes over vaccine policy and oversight.
Rubio told lawmakers the decision to renew engagement was made weeks earlier and said discussions between the State Department and health officials are ongoing. Reports indicate that roughly $600 million in U.S. funding remains under discussion as officials work through transparency and accountability concerns.
The policy reversal follows earlier moves by Health Secretary RFK Jr., who criticized Gavi over vaccine safety concerns and suspended funding commitments. Gavi has rejected allegations that it ignored safety issues and says it has already updated or transitioned away from some vaccine formulations that drew criticism.
Health officials say the renewed focus comes as the Ebola outbreak — centered around the Bundibugyo strain in parts of central Africa — continues to spread, prompting new U.S. funding commitments and discussions around appointing a dedicated response coordinator.
The decision highlights growing debate inside the administration over who should drive global health policy, with the State Department increasingly involved in outbreak response and international vaccine partnerships.
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