On Wednesday, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) marked the one-year anniversary of the federal government’s announcement to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO)—a move that was recently finalized. In a public statement, IDPH warned that the withdrawal will disrupt long-standing systems for global disease detection, emergency coordination, and the rapid sharing of life-saving health information.
In response to the increased risks posed by reduced international health collaboration, IDPH outlined several steps taken over the past year to protect Illinois residents:
Formation of Global Health Advisory Committee:
The department established a Global Health Advisory Committee, bringing together leading experts from Illinois universities. The committee’s mission is to develop strategies for responding to global health threats and ensure Illinois remains prepared for emerging diseases.
Joining Governors Public Health Alliance:
Illinois has joined GovAct’s Governors Public Health Alliance, a multistate coalition aimed at strengthening public health preparedness. Through this alliance, Illinois and other member states can collaborate directly when federal coordination is limited.
Plans to Join WHO’s Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network:
IDPH is making preparations to join the WHO Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN). Participation in this network will help Illinois maintain vital connections to global disease surveillance and outbreak response efforts, despite changes in federal engagement.
New Vaccine Legislation:
In December 2025, Governor J.B. Pritzker signed HB 767 into law, giving IDPH the authority to offer science-based vaccine guidelines through the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee (IL-IAC). The legislation also requires state-regulated insurance plans to cover vaccines recommended by IDPH.
IDPH officials emphasized that as public health policies continue to evolve, the department remains committed to developing practical, locally driven solutions to protect Illinois residents. The department reiterated its dedication to maintaining robust public health infrastructure and international cooperation, even as the national landscape changes.