WHO slams US-funded newborn vaccine trial as "unethical"

Here's something that caught my attention — the WHO just called a US-funded newborn vaccine trial in Guinea-Bissau 'unethical.' And honestly, that's a big deal. The WHO’s official statement, shared by Beth Mole in TechCrunch, points out that the trial would withhold a proven, lifesaving hepatitis B vaccine from some babies. Now, here’s where it gets interesting — according to the WHO, the trial doesn’t follow basic ethical or scientific standards, citing low-quality design and potential harm. Susan in Geneva, a WHO spokesperson, emphasized that such trials could undermine trust in vaccines, especially in vulnerable communities. And get this — the US’s CDC awarded $1.6 million for this project, even though critics say it’s risky and unnecessary. As Beth Mole highlights, this isn’t just about one trial; it’s about respecting ethical boundaries when it comes to vulnerable populations. So what does this mean for you? It’s a reminder that even well-intentioned research can cross the line if it ignores basic rights — and that oversight really matters.