- United States
- Texas
- Letter
The decision to cut foreign aid funding for programs aimed at preventing and containing disease outbreaks around the world is extremely concerning. Organizations supported by U.S. aid have played a crucial role in securing dangerous pathogens, inspecting for diseases like mpox and Ebola at borders, and monitoring the cross-border movement of animals that could spread infections. With these safeguards now dismantled, the world is left vulnerable to the rapid spread of threatening viruses and bacteria that can easily cross international borders. History has shown time and again that outbreaks originating abroad can have devastating impacts within the United States as well. The coronavirus pandemic is a prime example of how a pathogen emerging in one part of the world can quickly go global. Even diseases like polio and dengue that appear in America are often linked to international travel and spread. Protecting global health is vital for the wellbeing of all Americans. I urge you to reconsider these funding cuts and reinstate support for programs run by USAID and partner organizations. Their work in securing labs, monitoring disease at borders, and preventing the unchecked movement of potential disease vectors is essential for mitigating the risks of outbreaks that could endanger lives in the U.S. and worldwide. Investing in global health security is an investment in the safety of all.
