Back in 1948, the U.S and other countries created a unique coalition: The
World Health Organization was established to address global health challenges including disease outbreaks like the COVID-19 pandemic.
At the start of this year, the
Trump administration formally withdrew the U.S. from the WHO. That withdrawal creates uncertainty over how the U.S., and individual states like Colorado, will track and respond to future outbreaks.
So, Colorado is trying a new tactic. Health officials have applied to join the WHO's Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network – or GOARN – as an individual state.
Scientists and health officials say the move will put Colorado in a better position to respond to emerging diseases and will foster stronger public health policies across the state.
Reporter John Ingold has been
following this story for The Colorado Sun. He joined Erin O'Toole to talk about the decision to join this global health network, and how it might help Coloradans prepare for the next health crisis.
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Host and Producer: Erin O'Toole
Executive Producer: Brad Turner
Theme music by Robbie Reverb
Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
In The NoCo is a production of KUNC News and Community Radio for Northern Colorado.
What is In The NOCO?
KUNC's In The NOCO is a daily look at the stories, news, people and issues important to you. It's a window to the communities along the Colorado Rocky Mountains. The show explores the big stories of the day, bringing context and insight to issues that matter. And because life in Northern Colorado is a balance of work and play, we explore the lighter side of news, highlighting what makes this state such an incredible place to live.