In paint. In dust. In soil. In water. In some ceramics, cosmetics, medicines, toys and jewelry. Lead exposure can come from more places than many people realize — which is why awareness must lead to action.

On 20 October 2026, France reported the first documented case of human disease caused by the Shamonda virus. This virus primarily affects animals such as cattle, sheep, goats and horses. WHO is in touch with the French authorities and is closely monitoring the situation. Here is what you need to know ➡️

Leprosy is curable, and effective treatment is available. Yet for too many people, the greatest barrier is not the disease itself, but the stigma and discrimination that prevent them from seeking care. Ending leprosy means ending discrimination.

There is no known safe level of lead exposure for children. Even low levels can harm developing brains and have lifelong consequences. The safest exposure is no exposure bit.ly/3TKEwwd

Extreme heat can affect health before a child is even born. Heat exposure during pregnancy has been linked with preterm birth, stillbirth, low birth weight, and other complications. Better monitoring can help health systems identify emerging risks - and protect women during and after pregnancy as well as their babies. Learn more: bit.ly/4zLTLEh

Protect your baby from measles with 2 doses of measles vaccine. 1️⃣ In countries where measles is common, it is vital to give the first dose around 9 months of age; in other countries, at 12-15 months of age. 2️⃣ Give the second dose later in childhood to ensure full protection. Remember: Infants can be vaccinated around 6 months of age if there is an outbreak or before travel to endemic countries.

Nearly 59 million lives have been saved by the measles vaccine since the year 2000. Let that sink in. 59 million people — because of science.

Experiencing extreme heat during pregnancy is linked to higher risks for babies, including preterm birth, stillbirth, and low birth weight. Pregnant women may also face higher risks of high blood pressure. Children also can become ill during extreme heat. WHO, WMO, UNICEF and UNFPA have identified key indicators to help countries spot these risks using data they already collect — such as preterm births, clinic visits, deaths and school attendance — alongside heat exposure data. Measuring the health impacts of heat means, we can act sooner to protect those most at risk: bit.ly/4zLTLEh

Vaccines save lives.

Measles can be fatal. Do you know its symptoms? - Rash that starts on the face and spreads over the body - Fever - Cough - Red and watery eyes - Small white spots inside the cheeks Seek health care if you suspect you or your child has measles.

Extreme heat can endanger lives before birth—and put pregnant women, newborns and young children at increasing health risk. This means higher odds of preterm birth, still birth, low birth weight, and cardiovascular complications during labour. For 1.5 billion children, heatwaves are becoming more frequent, lasting longer and growing more severe. WHO, WMO, UNICEF and UNFPA are helping countries make health impacts visible - so they can take action. Learn more: bit.ly/4zLTLEh

In paint. In dust. In soil. In water. In some ceramics, cosmetics, medicines, toys and jewelry. Lead exposure can come from more places than many people realize — which is why awareness must lead to action bit.ly/3TKEwwd

🔴 LIVE: Opening remarks of Director-General @DrTedros at the 2026 World Bio Summit in Seoul, Republic of Korea youtube.com/live/bbQwM3tZKuY