After 106 cases of coronavirus was reported in China's capital Beijing in the past five days, health authorities said the virus was detected on "chopping boards" used to handle imported salmon at Xinfadi market

Beijing's wholesale Xinfadi market at the centre of new COVID-19 cluster

The World Health Organisation (WHO) is turning out to be a big disappointment -- as it keeps flip-flopping on its statements despite being the global standard of health and health-related guidelines.

A top WHO official on Tuesday clarified her remarks that transmission of the new coronavirus from asymptomatic carriers was "very rare", citing a "misunderstanding".

Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO's COVID-19 technical lead, had said that on the basis of studies carried out in several countries, transmission of the virus by an asymptomatic person seemed "very rare".

"We have a number of reports from countries who are doing very detailed contact tracing. They're following asymptomatic cases, they're following contacts and they're not finding secondary transmission onward. It's very rare," she told a virtual press conference on Monday.

Her remarks, which were widely relayed on social media networks, sparked a reaction from part of the scientific community.

"Contrary to what the WHO announced, it is not scientifically possible to affirm that asymptomatic carriers of SARS-CoV-2 are not very infectious," an expert said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-whos-risky-trial-error-guidelines-304949/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Another said she was quite surprised.

To this end, Van Kerkhove later posted on Twitter a WHO summary on transmission.

"Comprehensive studies on transmission from asymptomatic individuals are difficult to conduct, but the available evidence from contact tracing reported by member states suggests that asymptomatically-infected individuals are much less likely to transmit the virus than those who develop symptoms," it said.

And again, during a discussion rebroadcast Tuesday on the WHO's Twitter account, Van Kerkhove said she wanted to clarify a misunderstanding.

"I was referring to very few studies, some two or three", and answering a question.

"I was not stating a policy of WHO," she said.

"I used the phrase 'very rare', and I think that is a misunderstanding to state that asymptomatic transmission globally is very rare. What I was referring to was the subset of studies," she added.

The point we stress here is not the mistake; but its gravity.

The world needs to understand the risks asymptomatic cases pose.

And this is not the first time the WHO has retraced a statement.

When it was first asked about the necessity of masks, it refuted they were of any importance. But five months and 7 million cases later, it decided masks were mandatory for survival.

In a nutshell, a confusion like this in the middle of a pandemic is not a good sign. Remember, the virus is still spreading.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) is turning out to be a big disappointment -- as it keeps flip-flopping on its statements despite being the global standard of health and health-related guidelines.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) is turning out to be a big disappointment -- as it keeps flip-flopping on its statements despite being the global standard of health and health-related guidelines. A top WHO official on Tuesday clarified her remarks that transmission of the new coronavirus from asymptomatic carriers was "very rare", citing a "misunderstanding". Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO's COVID-19 technical lead, had said that on the basis of studies carried out in several countries, transmission of the virus by an asymptomatic person seemed "very rare". "We have a number of reports from countries who are doing very detailed contact tracing. They're following asymptomatic cases, they're following contacts and they're not finding secondary transmission onward. It's very rare," she told a virtual press conference on Monday. Her remarks, which were widely relayed on social media networks, sparked a reaction from part of the scientific community. "Contrary to what the WHO announced, it is not scientifically possible to affirm that asymptomatic carriers of SARS-CoV-2 are not very infectious," an expert said. Another said she was quite surprised. To this end, Van Kerkhove later posted on Twitter a WHO summary on transmission. "Comprehensive studies on transmission from asymptomatic individuals are difficult to conduct, but the available evidence from contact tracing reported by member states suggests that asymptomatically-infected individuals are much less likely to transmit the virus than those who develop symptoms," it said. And again, during a discussion rebroadcast Tuesday on the WHO's Twitter account, Van Kerkhove said she wanted to clarify a misunderstanding. "I was referring to very few studies, some two or three", and answering a question. "I was not stating a policy of WHO," she said. "I used the phrase 'very rare', and I think that is a misunderstanding to state that asymptomatic transmission globally is very rare. What I was referring to was the subset of studies," she added. The point we stress here is not the mistake; but its gravity. The world needs to understand the risks asymptomatic cases pose. And this is not the first time the WHO has retraced a statement. When it was first asked about the necessity of masks, it refuted they were of any importance. But five months and 7 million cases later, it decided masks were mandatory for survival. In a nutshell, a confusion like this in the middle of a pandemic is not a good sign. Remember, the virus is still spreading.

Confusion in the times of coronavirus: WHO is a poor example to follow

World Health Organisation epidemiologist Maria van Kerkhove on Tuesday clarified her comments that transmission from symptomatic cases of Covid-19 was "very rare", citing a "misunderstanding".

WHO official backtracks after claiming asymptomatic transmission ‘very rare’

Xi Jinping's wife Peng Liyuan has been named as a goodwill ambassador by the World Health Organisation. Not too long ago, U.N.E.S.C.O had appointed China's first lady as a special envoy for Women's education. Is this proof of how the Chinese regime controls global bodies? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Xi Jinping's wife is W.H.O goodwill ambassador

The World Health Organisation has taken a U-turn on its stance over the asymptomatic transmission of Covid-19. It did the same with its guidelines on making masks mandatory. W.H.O's confusion-causing antics are threatening the global response to the pandemic.

Gravitas: W.H.O's risky trial & error Guidelines

Coronavirus pandemic is spreading like a wildfire in the African continent where it arrived because of travellers, but the severe cases and deaths are not being missed, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-post-lockdown-china-student-mental-health-in-focus-amid-reported-jump-in-suicides-305064" hreflang="en">In post-lockdown China, student mental health in focus amid reported jump in suicides</a>

During a Geneva briefing, Matshidiso Moeti, WHO's Africa regional director said that the continent has about 200,000 cases and around ten countries account for 75 per cent of these cases. Africa has witnessed 5,000 deaths. South Africa accounts for a quarter of cases.&nbsp;

"We believe that large numbers of severe cases and deaths are not being missed in Africa," she said. "One of the biggest challenges in Africa continues to be the availability of supplies, particularly test kits."

Coronavirus has infected over 7.2 &nbsp;million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University.

The World Health Organization warned against coronavirus worsening. “Although the situation in Europe is improving, globally it is worsening,” it said while adding that “asymptomatic patients” may not be a real cause of concern, then later backtracking on it.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Coronavirus pandemic is spreading like a wildfire in the African continent where it arrived because of travellers, but the severe cases and deaths are not being missed, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday.

Coronavirus pandemic is spreading like a wildfire in the African continent where it arrived because of travellers, but the severe cases and deaths are not being missed, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday. Also read: In post-lockdown China, student mental health in focus amid reported jump in suicides During a Geneva briefing, Matshidiso Moeti, WHO's Africa regional director said that the continent has about 200,000 cases and around ten countries account for 75 per cent of these cases. Africa has witnessed 5,000 deaths. South Africa accounts for a quarter of cases. "We believe that large numbers of severe cases and deaths are not being missed in Africa," she said. "One of the biggest challenges in Africa continues to be the availability of supplies, particularly test kits." Coronavirus has infected over 7.2 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. The World Health Organization warned against coronavirus worsening. “Although the situation in Europe is improving, globally it is worsening,” it said while adding that “asymptomatic patients” may not be a real cause of concern, then later backtracking on it. (Inputs from Reuters)

Coronavirus spreading like wildfire in Africa, test kits needed: WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) hopes to work "side by side" with the United States to contain Congo's Ebola outbreak, its chief said on Wednesday. The comments by Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus comes even as the Trump administration said the United States would end their relationship over the U.

The World Health Organization (WHO) hopes to work "side by side" with the United States to contain Congo's Ebola outbreak, its chief said on Wednesday. The comments by Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus comes even as the Trump administration said the United States would end their relationship over the U.N. agency's handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Ghebreyesus said that he had met with U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar last week, adding it was a very good discussion. However, he said that did not mean the body was receiving money directly from the country, which has been its top donor, as part of those efforts. "It's not about the money. The relationship (with the United States) is more important," he said at a virtual briefing on Wednesday.

Hopes to work 'side by side' with US on Ebola, says WHO chief

The World Health Organization tried to clear up confusion about how often people can spread the coronavirus when they do not have symptoms.

WHO clarifies confusion on asymptomatic spread of coronavirus

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday said that the coronavirus situation in the world is deteriorating and warned nations against complacency.&nbsp;

The WHO has said that it has recorded the highest single-day spike in coronavirus cases after a surge in the American continents.&nbsp;

Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. Currently, 7,006,436 people have had the virus, while 402,699 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago.

The five worst-affected countries according to JHU tracker are US (1,940,468), Brazil (691,758), Russia (467,073), United Kingdom (287,621), followed by India (257,486).

The WHO has urged protestors around to world to do it safely keeping the pandemic in mind.&nbsp;

"Although the situation in Europe is improving, globally it is worsening," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a virtual news conference in Geneva.

"More than 100,000 cases have been reported on nine of the past 10 days. Yesterday, more than 136,000 cases were reported -- the most in a single day so far."

Ghebreyesus said that 75 per cent of these cases came from 10 countries which mostly consist from South America and South Asia.&nbsp;

Tedros warned countries where the situation was improving. He said, &nbsp;"The biggest threat is now complacency", adding that "most people globally are still susceptible to infection".

"More than six months into this pandemic, this is not the time for any country to take its foot off the pedal," he said.

Mass protests against racism have broken out in the United States and many European countries after the killing of George Floyd. These protests have sparked fears of a second wave of the virus.&nbsp;

To which WHO chief said: "WHO fully supports equality and the global movement against racism. We reject discrimination of all kinds."

"We encourage all those protesting around the world to do so safely.

"As much as possible, keep at least one metre from others, clean your hands, cover your cough and wear a mask if you attend a protest."

"Stay home if you are sick and contact a health care provider," he added.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday said that the coronavirus situation in the world is deteriorating and warned nations against complacency. The WHO has said that it has recorded the highest single-day spike in coronavirus cases after a surge in the American continents.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday said that the coronavirus situation in the world is deteriorating and warned nations against complacency. The WHO has said that it has recorded the highest single-day spike in coronavirus cases after a surge in the American continents. Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. Currently, 7,006,436 people have had the virus, while 402,699 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago. The five worst-affected countries according to JHU tracker are US (1,940,468), Brazil (691,758), Russia (467,073), United Kingdom (287,621), followed by India (257,486). The WHO has urged protestors around to world to do it safely keeping the pandemic in mind. "Although the situation in Europe is improving, globally it is worsening," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a virtual news conference in Geneva. "More than 100,000 cases have been reported on nine of the past 10 days. Yesterday, more than 136,000 cases were reported -- the most in a single day so far." Ghebreyesus said that 75 per cent of these cases came from 10 countries which mostly consist from South America and South Asia. Tedros warned countries where the situation was improving. He said, "The biggest threat is now complacency", adding that "most people globally are still susceptible to infection". "More than six months into this pandemic, this is not the time for any country to take its foot off the pedal," he said. Mass protests against racism have broken out in the United States and many European countries after the killing of George Floyd. These protests have sparked fears of a second wave of the virus. To which WHO chief said: "WHO fully supports equality and the global movement against racism. We reject discrimination of all kinds." "We encourage all those protesting around the world to do so safely. "As much as possible, keep at least one metre from others, clean your hands, cover your cough and wear a mask if you attend a protest." "Stay home if you are sick and contact a health care provider," he added.

Coronavirus situation around the world 'worsening', warns WHO

The World Health Organisation has said that it is studying a possible link between COVID-19 and illness similar to Kawasaki disease that has sickened and killed children in Europe and the US. Watch report.

WHO: Children at risk from illness linked to COVID-19

Brazil is now one of the hotspots of the pandemic, with the second highest number of confirmed cases, behind only the United States, and a death toll that last week surpassed Italy's.

WHO Director General urges world not to let up on COVID-19 battle

The World Health Organization on Friday updated guidance on wearing facemasks during the coronavirus pandemic, encouraging their use in crowded situations in places where the new coronavirus is widespread.

As the deadly virus continues to spread, the WHO changed its stance on who should wear a mask, when it should be worn and what it should be made of.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-temporary-pause-who-to-resume-hydroxychloroquine-trials-303045">After 'temporary pause', WHO to resume hydroxychloroquine trials</a>

"Governments should encourage the general public to wear masks where there is widespread transmission and physical distancing is difficult, such as on public transport, in shops or in other confined or crowded environments," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

"In areas with community transmission, we advise that people aged 60 years or over, or those with underlying conditions, should wear a medical mask in situations where physical distancing is not possible," he added.

The WHO also issued new guidance on the composition of non-medical fabric masks, advising that they should consist of at least three layers of different material.

But Tedros stressed that masks were only one part of an effective strategy to suppress the virus and could lead people into a false sense of security.

He said they were not a replacement for physical distancing and hand hygiene.

"Masks alone will not protect you from COVID-19," he told a virtual news conference.

"Find, isolate, test and care for every case, and to trace and quarantine every contact. That is what we know works. That is every country's best defence against COVID-19."

The novel coronavirus has infected at least 6.6 million people and killed more than 390,000 since the outbreak first emerged in China last December, according to a tally from official sources compiled by AFP. 
&nbsp;

The World Health Organization on Friday updated guidance on wearing facemasks during the coronavirus pandemic, encouraging their use in crowded situations in places where the new coronavirus is widespread.

The World Health Organization on Friday updated guidance on wearing facemasks during the coronavirus pandemic, encouraging their use in crowded situations in places where the new coronavirus is widespread. As the deadly virus continues to spread, the WHO changed its stance on who should wear a mask, when it should be worn and what it should be made of. Also read | After 'temporary pause', WHO to resume hydroxychloroquine trials "Governments should encourage the general public to wear masks where there is widespread transmission and physical distancing is difficult, such as on public transport, in shops or in other confined or crowded environments," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. "In areas with community transmission, we advise that people aged 60 years or over, or those with underlying conditions, should wear a medical mask in situations where physical distancing is not possible," he added. The WHO also issued new guidance on the composition of non-medical fabric masks, advising that they should consist of at least three layers of different material. But Tedros stressed that masks were only one part of an effective strategy to suppress the virus and could lead people into a false sense of security. He said they were not a replacement for physical distancing and hand hygiene. "Masks alone will not protect you from COVID-19," he told a virtual news conference. "Find, isolate, test and care for every case, and to trace and quarantine every contact. That is what we know works. That is every country's best defence against COVID-19." The novel coronavirus has infected at least 6.6 million people and killed more than 390,000 since the outbreak first emerged in China last December, according to a tally from official sources compiled by AFP.

WHO updates guidelines on wearing masks

Scientists around the world are resuming trials of the controversial drug hydroxychloroquine for possible use against COVID-19, after the retraction of a heavily criticised study into its effects and side-effects. Now the paper has been retracted, and the WHO trials are back on after several of the paper's authors said they were not able to verify the contents of a database at the heart of the study.

Lancet cities lack of data authenticity: Study that paused HCQ trails now retracted

The World Health Organization announced Wednesday that clinical trials of the drug hydroxychloroquine will resume as it searches for potential coronavirus treatments.

COVID-19: Surgisphere's HCQ Data Under Intense Scrutiny

World Health Organization resumes coronavirus trial on HCQ

A new report has now unveiled how China withheld data on Coronavirus pandemic - leaving officers of the World Health Organisation 'frustrated'. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how the WHO was given little data or access during the crucial weeks at the beginning of the outbreak.

Gravitas: WHO's internal documents reveal China's 'cover-up'

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has vowed to lead the global war against novel coronavirus

WHO keen to continue collaboration with US

The United States is terminating its relationship with the World Health Organization over the body's handling of the coronavirus pandemic, US President Donald Trump said on Friday, accusing the UN agency of becoming a puppet of China.

Trump: US is terminating its relationship with the WHO

The European Union on Saturday urged United States President Donald Trump to reconsider its decision to cut ties with the World Health Organisation (WHO) over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

"In the face of this global threat, now is the time for enhanced cooperation and common solutions. Actions that weaken international results must be avoided," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said in a statement.

"In this context, we urge the US to reconsider its announced decision," it said, a day after Trump announced the move, accusing the UN agency of becoming a puppet of China.

The move to quit the Geneva-based body, which the United States formally joined in 1948, comes amid growing tensions between Washington and Beijing over the coronavirus outbreak. The virus first emerged in China's Wuhan city late last year.

Trump said Chinese officials "ignored their reporting obligations" to the WHO about the virus -- which has killed hundreds of thousands of people globally -- and pressured the agency to "mislead the world."

Trump's decision follows a pledge last week by Chinese President Xi Jinping to give $2 billion to the WHO over the next two years to help combat the coronavirus. The amount almost matches the WHO's entire annual programme budget for last year.

Trump last month halted funding for the 194-member organisation, then in a May 18 letter gave the WHO 30 days to commit to reforms.

It was not immediately clear when his decision would come into effect. A 1948 joint resolution of Congress on US membership of the WHO said the country "reserves its right to withdraw from the organisation on a one-year notice."

The United States currently owes the WHO more than $200 million in assessed contributions, according to the WHO website. Washington also gives several hundred million dollars annually in voluntary funding tied to specific WHO programmes such as polio eradication, HIV, hepatitis and tuberculosis.

(with inputs from Reuters)

The European Union on Saturday urged United States President Donald Trump to reconsider its decision to cut ties with the World Health Organisation (WHO) over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

The European Union on Saturday urged United States President Donald Trump to reconsider its decision to cut ties with the World Health Organisation (WHO) over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic. "In the face of this global threat, now is the time for enhanced cooperation and common solutions. Actions that weaken international results must be avoided," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said in a statement. "In this context, we urge the US to reconsider its announced decision," it said, a day after Trump announced the move, accusing the UN agency of becoming a puppet of China. The move to quit the Geneva-based body, which the United States formally joined in 1948, comes amid growing tensions between Washington and Beijing over the coronavirus outbreak. The virus first emerged in China's Wuhan city late last year. Trump said Chinese officials "ignored their reporting obligations" to the WHO about the virus -- which has killed hundreds of thousands of people globally -- and pressured the agency to "mislead the world." Trump's decision follows a pledge last week by Chinese President Xi Jinping to give $2 billion to the WHO over the next two years to help combat the coronavirus. The amount almost matches the WHO's entire annual programme budget for last year. Trump last month halted funding for the 194-member organisation, then in a May 18 letter gave the WHO 30 days to commit to reforms. It was not immediately clear when his decision would come into effect. A 1948 joint resolution of Congress on US membership of the WHO said the country "reserves its right to withdraw from the organisation on a one-year notice." The United States currently owes the WHO more than $200 million in assessed contributions, according to the WHO website. Washington also gives several hundred million dollars annually in voluntary funding tied to specific WHO programmes such as polio eradication, HIV, hepatitis and tuberculosis. (with inputs from Reuters)

EU urges Trump to rethink decision to cut ties with WHO

Germany on Saturday described US President Donald Trump's decision to sever ties with the World Health Organization (WHO) as "disappointing" and a setback for global health.

Germany on Saturday described US President Donald Trump's decision to sever ties with the World Health Organization (WHO) as "disappointing" and a setback for global health. Health Minister Jens Spahn said the WHO "needs reform" if it is to "make any difference", something the EU must now take a lead in doing. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Angela Merkel will not attend an in-person summit of G7 leaders that US President Donald Trump has suggested he will host despite concerns over the coronavirus pandemic, a German government spokesman said Saturday. Leaders from the Group of Seven, which the United States heads this year, had been scheduled to meet by videoconference in late June after COVID-19 scuttled plans to gather in-person at Camp David, the US presidential retreat in the state of Maryland. Trump last week, however, indicated that he could hold the huge gathering after all, "primarily at the White House" but also potentially parts of it at Camp David. Merkel, a scientist by training, has declined. "As of today, considering the overall pandemic situation, she cannot agree to her personal participation, to a journey to Washington," the spokesman said, confirming an earlier report on the Politico website. "The federal chancellor thanks President Trump for his invitation to the G7 summit," he added.

Germany says Trump severing ties with WHO will harm global health

Gru and the popular yellow Minions from the animated "Despicable Me" movie franchise are urging people to keep their distance to help fight the spread of the novel coronavirus in a new public service announcement unveiled on Wednesday.

Gru and Minions urge handwashing and fun at home in new coronavirus public service announcement

Countries could see a "second peak" of Coronavirus cases during the first wave of the pandemic if lockdown restrictions were lifted too soon

WION Fineprint: WHO warns of 'Second Peak' of cases

There are more than 100 coronavirus vaccines in the pipeline and almost a dozen that have made it to human trials so far.

Monkeys infected with COVID-19 develop immunity in studies

US President Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum to WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Trump is threatening to pull US funding to the WHO permanently. WION's Palki tells you how the US - China fight has dominated the World Health Assembly.

Gravitas: US - China fight dominates World Health Assembly

Why was Taiwan not on the agenda of the World Health Assembly? Two days ago, Taiwan's Foreign Minister said that his country is postponing its bid for an observer status at the WHO. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you what could have led to that decision.

Gravitas: Why no seat for Taiwan at WHO

It is now official that there will be an investigation into the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. A resolution at the World Health Assembly has received unanimous support from all member states.

Resolution on COVID-19 passed at WHO

All eyes are on the World Health Assembly (WHA) meet of the World Health Organisation (WHO), where major decisions regarding the furture course of treatment of COVID-19 will be taken.

The coronavirus, which has claimed over 3,20,957 lives and has infected 49,27,523 people across the world, broke out in China's Wuhan in December 2019.

The world has since been questioning China and the WHO over their handling of the deadly virus.

The WHA, to this end, has become nothing short of a ground for blame game -- between the United States and China.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-china-fight-dominates-world-health-assembly-299783/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged $2 billion over the next two years to help deal with COVID-19, especially in developing countries.

The amount almost matches the WHO’s entire annual programme budget for last year, and more than compensates for Trump’s freeze of U.S. payments worth about $400 million a year.

United States President Donald Trump -- who did not attend the meeting personally -- said later in Washington that the WHO, which he called a “puppet of China”, had “done a very sad job” in its handling of the coronavirus and he would make a decision about U.S. funding to the body soon.

“The United States pays them $450 million a year; China pays them $38 million a year. And they’re a puppet of China. They’re China-centric, to put it nicer, but they’re a puppet of China,” Trump told reporters at a White House event.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-and-china-spat-over-coronavirus-inquiry-gets-uglier-299755">Also read | Australia and China spat over coronavirus inquiry gets uglier</a>

Trump has already suspended US funding for the WHO after accusing it of being too China-centric, and at the same time led international criticism of Beijing’s perceived lack of transparency in the early stages of the crisis.

He also posted a letter to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, dated Monday, on his Twitter page overnight.

Among other things, Trump pointed to his decision to suspend US contributions to the WHO pending a review of its actions in response to the outbreak.

He faulted its "repeated missteps" in the response to the pandemic, saying they have proven "very costly for the world".&nbsp;

The four-page letter ended with a threat. Trump said he wanted the WHO to commit to "substantive improvements" within 30 days; "else, the US would permanently cut off funding to them.

A spokeswoman for the World Health Organisation, to this end, said the UN health agency doesn't have an immediate reaction to a letter from US President Donald Trump that listed his complaints against it, including that it had shown "an alarming lack of independence" from China in its response to the coronavirus outbreak.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, however, defended the agency's role after the United States again withheld full support for a resolution on the pandemic.

WHO officials running the meeting clapped and cheered after the resolution was passed without a vote hours after Trump tweeted his threat to pull the United States out of the body. It calls for a review into the WHO-led global response, something the United States has demanded.

The entire rigmarole hence brings the narrative to a pertinent question -- will there be an outcome of this WHA meet? Or will the credibility of the WHO be the ultimate casualty of the coronavirus pandemic?

 
&nbsp;

All eyes are on the World Health Assembly (WHA) meet of the World Health Organisation (WHO), where major decisions regarding the furture course of treatment of COVID-19 will be taken.

All eyes are on the World Health Assembly (WHA) meet of the World Health Organisation (WHO), where major decisions regarding the furture course of treatment of COVID-19 will be taken. The coronavirus, which has claimed over 3,20,957 lives and has infected 49,27,523 people across the world, broke out in China's Wuhan in December 2019. The world has since been questioning China and the WHO over their handling of the deadly virus. The WHA, to this end, has become nothing short of a ground for blame game -- between the United States and China. Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged $2 billion over the next two years to help deal with COVID-19, especially in developing countries. The amount almost matches the WHO’s entire annual programme budget for last year, and more than compensates for Trump’s freeze of U.S. payments worth about $400 million a year. United States President Donald Trump -- who did not attend the meeting personally -- said later in Washington that the WHO, which he called a “puppet of China”, had “done a very sad job” in its handling of the coronavirus and he would make a decision about U.S. funding to the body soon. “The United States pays them $450 million a year; China pays them $38 million a year. And they’re a puppet of China. They’re China-centric, to put it nicer, but they’re a puppet of China,” Trump told reporters at a White House event. Also read | Australia and China spat over coronavirus inquiry gets uglier Trump has already suspended US funding for the WHO after accusing it of being too China-centric, and at the same time led international criticism of Beijing’s perceived lack of transparency in the early stages of the crisis. He also posted a letter to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, dated Monday, on his Twitter page overnight. Among other things, Trump pointed to his decision to suspend US contributions to the WHO pending a review of its actions in response to the outbreak. He faulted its "repeated missteps" in the response to the pandemic, saying they have proven "very costly for the world". The four-page letter ended with a threat. Trump said he wanted the WHO to commit to "substantive improvements" within 30 days; "else, the US would permanently cut off funding to them. A spokeswoman for the World Health Organisation, to this end, said the UN health agency doesn't have an immediate reaction to a letter from US President Donald Trump that listed his complaints against it, including that it had shown "an alarming lack of independence" from China in its response to the coronavirus outbreak. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, however, defended the agency's role after the United States again withheld full support for a resolution on the pandemic. WHO officials running the meeting clapped and cheered after the resolution was passed without a vote hours after Trump tweeted his threat to pull the United States out of the body. It calls for a review into the WHO-led global response, something the United States has demanded. The entire rigmarole hence brings the narrative to a pertinent question -- will there be an outcome of this WHA meet? Or will the credibility of the WHO be the ultimate casualty of the coronavirus pandemic?

Can WHA meet save WHO's credibility from becoming coronavirus' ultimate casualty?

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo condemns Taiwan's exclusion from World Health Assembly and lauds its efforts in containing COVID-19.

US condemns Taiwan's exclusion from World Health Assembly

US President Donald Trump&nbsp;threatened to permanently halt US funding for the World Health Organization (WHO) if the body does not commit to "major substantive improvements" in the next 30 days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-health-organisation-a-puppet-of-china-trump-says-as-he-mulls-slashing-us-funding-299543">Also read: World Health Organisation a 'puppet of China', Trump says as he mulls slashing US funding</a> 
 
In a letter to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Trump said, "It is clear the repeated missteps by you and your organization in responding to the pandemic have been extremely costly for the world. The only way forward for the World Health Organization is if it can demonstrate independence from China." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-initiate-independent-evaluation-at-earliest-appropriate-moment-who-chief-on-coronavirus-pandemic-299468">Also read: Will initiate independent evaluation at earliest appropriate moment — WHO chief on coronavirus pandemic</a>

"My administration has already started discussions with you on how to reform the organization. But action is needed quickly. We do not have time to waste." 
 
Trump also said that even after declaring Covid-19 outbreak, the WHO failed to press China for the timely admittance of a team of international medical experts. 
 
The letter on official White House letterhead, screenshots of which were posted to Twitter, comes after Trump temporarily halted funding to the organization last month.

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This is the letter sent to Dr. Tedros of the World Health Organization. It is self-explanatory! <a href="https://t.co/pF2kzPUpDv">pic.twitter.com/pF2kzPUpDv</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1262577580718395393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He further said that the WHO knew about a major public health concern in Wuhan by December 30, 2019, which was also communicated by Taiwanese authorities. “But the WHO chose not to share any of this critical information with the rest of the world, probably for political reasons.”

"The US funds $400 million to $500 million to the WHO each year," Trump said at the time, noting that China "contributes roughly $40 million."

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Donald Trump threatened to permanently halt US funding for the World Health Organization (WHO) if the body does not commit to "major substantive improvements" in the next 30 days.

US President Donald Trump threatened to permanently halt US funding for the World Health Organization (WHO) if the body does not commit to "major substantive improvements" in the next 30 days. Also read: World Health Organisation a 'puppet of China', Trump says as he mulls slashing US funding In a letter to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Trump said, "It is clear the repeated missteps by you and your organization in responding to the pandemic have been extremely costly for the world. The only way forward for the World Health Organization is if it can demonstrate independence from China." Also read: Will initiate independent evaluation at earliest appropriate moment — WHO chief on coronavirus pandemic "My administration has already started discussions with you on how to reform the organization. But action is needed quickly. We do not have time to waste." Trump also said that even after declaring Covid-19 outbreak, the WHO failed to press China for the timely admittance of a team of international medical experts. The letter on official White House letterhead, screenshots of which were posted to Twitter, comes after Trump temporarily halted funding to the organization last month. This is the letter sent to Dr. Tedros of the World Health Organization. It is self-explanatory! pic.twitter.com/pF2kzPUpDv — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 19, 2020 × He further said that the WHO knew about a major public health concern in Wuhan by December 30, 2019, which was also communicated by Taiwanese authorities. “But the WHO chose not to share any of this critical information with the rest of the world, probably for political reasons.” "The US funds $400 million to $500 million to the WHO each year," Trump said at the time, noting that China "contributes roughly $40 million." (With inputs from agencies)

US President Donald Trump threatens to permanently pull funding from WHO

Day after president Xi Jinping's speech at the world health assembly, US President Donald Trump lashes out against World Health Organisation and China. To know more watch the video.

Trump says WHO is a puppet of China

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has vowed to lead the global war against novel coronavirus. According to Ghebreyesus, it &nbsp;"threatens to tear at the fabric of international cooperation."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-health-organisation-a-puppet-of-china-trump-says-as-he-mulls-slashing-us-funding-299543">World Health Organisation a 'puppet of China', Trump says as he mulls slashing US funding</a>

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, during the two-day annual ministerial assembly also thanked many member states who have shown "support and solidarity" in the fight against COVID-19.

WHO director-general welcomed the European Union's resolution that was adopted by the World Health Organisation's 194 member states. The resolution calls for an independent evaluation of the international response, "including, but not limited to, WHO’s performance."

"We want accountability more than anyone," Tedros said. "We will continue providing strategic leadership to coordinate the global response" to the pandemic.

He did not respond to Donald Trump's threat to leave the WHO.&nbsp;

Earlier, US President Donald Trump threatened to permanently halt US funding for the World Health Organization (WHO) if the body does not commit to "major substantive improvements" in the next 30 days.

In a letter to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Trump said, "It is clear the repeated missteps by you and your organization in responding to the pandemic have been extremely costly for the world. The only way forward for the World Health Organization is if it can demonstrate independence from China."

"My administration has already started discussions with you on how to reform the organization. But action is needed quickly. We do not have time to waste."

Trump also said that even after declaring Covid-19 outbreak, the WHO failed to press China for the timely admittance of a team of international medical experts.

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has vowed to lead the global war against novel coronavirus. According to Ghebreyesus, it "threatens to tear at the fabric of international cooperation.

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has vowed to lead the global war against novel coronavirus. According to Ghebreyesus, it "threatens to tear at the fabric of international cooperation." Also read: World Health Organisation a 'puppet of China', Trump says as he mulls slashing US funding Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, during the two-day annual ministerial assembly also thanked many member states who have shown "support and solidarity" in the fight against COVID-19. WHO director-general welcomed the European Union's resolution that was adopted by the World Health Organisation's 194 member states. The resolution calls for an independent evaluation of the international response, "including, but not limited to, WHO’s performance." "We want accountability more than anyone," Tedros said. "We will continue providing strategic leadership to coordinate the global response" to the pandemic. He did not respond to Donald Trump's threat to leave the WHO. Earlier, US President Donald Trump threatened to permanently halt US funding for the World Health Organization (WHO) if the body does not commit to "major substantive improvements" in the next 30 days. In a letter to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Trump said, "It is clear the repeated missteps by you and your organization in responding to the pandemic have been extremely costly for the world. The only way forward for the World Health Organization is if it can demonstrate independence from China." "My administration has already started discussions with you on how to reform the organization. But action is needed quickly. We do not have time to waste." Trump also said that even after declaring Covid-19 outbreak, the WHO failed to press China for the timely admittance of a team of international medical experts.

World Health Organisation will continue to lead global fight against pandemic: Tedros

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