The president of the United States, Donald Trump, reaffirmed on Monday his decision to withdraw his country from the World Health Organization (WHO), even in the face of the recent hantavirus outbreak that affected cruise ship passengers. The statement came as 18 people were repatriated from the MV Hondius to U.S. territory, in a context of health tension.
Context of the hantavirus outbreak
The virus, transmitted by rodents and with a lethality that can exceed 30% according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), caused alarm on the cruise ship sailing in Antarctic waters. Authorities confirmed the evacuation of those affected, many of them with severe symptoms such as fever and respiratory problems. This incident highlights vulnerabilities in closed environments such as passenger vessels.
Background of the WHO exit
The WHO exit was announced by Trump in 2025, as part of criticism of the previous pandemic management and accusations of pro‑China bias. The U.S., the main funder of the organization with about 16% of its budget, left a void that forced the WHO to cut global programs. Public health experts, such as those at Johns Hopkins University, warn that this WHO exit complicates international coordination during infectious emergencies.
Political and health implications
Official response from Washington
During a press conference in Washington, Trump stated he does not regret the WHO exit, arguing that it allows the U.S. to focus resources on more efficient national protocols. “The WHO has repeatedly failed,” he said, citing delays in alerts during past outbreaks such as Ebola in 2014.
- 18 passengers repatriated from the MV Hondius.
- Hantavirus: 38% mortality in pulmonary forms, per CDC.
- The U.S. led contributions to the WHO until 2025.
The measure has sparked debate. While the CDC has taken on global surveillance roles, countries such as Canada and the European Union question effectiveness without the multilateral umbrella. In the Dominican Republic, health authorities are monitoring possible infections via Caribbean maritime routes.
The WHO reported in 2025 a 20% increase in zoonotic outbreaks, underscoring the need for cooperation despite the WHO exit of key powers.
This episode with the hantavirus puts the new U.S. strategy to the test, prioritizing autonomy over international health alliances.
