It is really critical that all countries come together in order to treat and aid NID-affected people and communities, WHO´s NID Control Department Mwele Ntuli Malecela said.

At the 20th International Symposium on Neglected Infectious Diseases, which is held from Tuesday to Thursday, Ms. Malecela stated that more than a billion people have been treated for at least one of these diseases from 2015 to 2018.

We see a political will and an implementation of control and surveillance programs, which, for example, allowed trachoma to drop by 74%.

16 other nations cut down lymphatic filariasis and reduced buruli cases by 60%, Ms. Malecela said, while calling for more collaboration and comprehensive approaches.

Ms. Malecela also detailed some of major objectives WHO is seeking with a new roadmap entitled ‘Ending Neglect to Achieve the 2021-2030 Sustainable Development Goals’.

Ms. Malecela also mentioned the need for a 75% of coverage rate for integrated chemoprophylaxis treatment.

WHO also expects that 100% of people have access to water and hygiene in endemic areas, 90% at risk are protected from direct costs related to these pathologies; among others.

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