SPECIAL FEATURE
NTDs are curable when you detect them early. They can be controlled and eliminated by applying preventive
chemotherapy through
Mass Drug
Administration. Dr. Maria Rebollo Polo,
World Health Organization, Team Leader ESPEN
“
countries: Togo and Malawi eliminated lymphatic filariasis, Ghana and The Gambia eliminated trachoma. Meanwhile, Ethiopia achieved full geographical treatment coverage for trachoma.
OFQ: How relevant is the fight against NTDs in times when the world is battling COVID-19? Can you tell us about the wider benefits that investing in NTDs can have? MRP: While the world continues to battle COVID-19, it is critical that we do not allow the pandemic to reverse years of hard-fought progress against NTDs. In 2020, NTDs caused far more illnesses, disability and mortality in Africa than COVID-19.
Photo courtesy of WHO/ESPEN
Rather than slowing down our efforts,
we should work in synergy to combat COVID-19 and NTDs. Both can be averted by taking similar preventive measures, engaging NTD community health workers, laboratory and testing services, medicine distribution channels, health education, behavior change training and implementing improved WASH facilities. NTD programs will continue to serve as well-established grassroots platforms to implement interventions along with other preventive health measures for people, including those living in the most remote regions. Controlling NTDs can curb COVID-19 and other future health threats. We must work together in our
battle to improve the well-being of the population, whether it is NTDs, COVID-19 or any other health threat. We must ensure that the most vulnerable get the necessary medicines to prevent suffering and avoidable deaths. Now many African governments have
access to the tools, the drugs and the data to implement long-term solutions. We are close to the finish line and need to keep the momentum going. It is in the interest of the global community to sustain investments in the fight against NTDs that directly impact the health and poverty alleviation of vulnerable communities.
FACTFILE: NTDs
The following six NTDs can be controlled or eliminated through mass administration of safe and effective medicines or other interventions:
• Dracunculiasis (Guinea Worm Disease)
• Lymphatic Filariasis • Onchocerciasis • Schistosomiasis • Soil-transmitted Helminths e.g. Ascaris, Hookworm, and Whipworm • Trachoma
Controlling the vectors (mosquitoes, black flies) that transmit these diseases and improving basic water, sanitation and hygiene are highly effective strategies against these NTDs.
Source: CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
19
Photo courtesy of WHO/ESPEN
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