

Yes, you need internet to use the “smart” features of the TV. No, you don’t need internet to just use the TV. You can connect any device that is supported by the ports on the TV, for example a Raspberry PI with a DOS emulator or for example an Apple TV to replace the “smart” part of the TV.
Organisms like viruses, bacteria and fungi don’t care about country borders. The US withdrawing from the WHO sadly just means that the world will be less capable in responding to emerging threats overall.
Edit: Still a good joke though ;)