Attendees pause for a photo outside of the venue where 11 countries gathered for a pause and reflect meeting on supporting sustainable services for NTDs. (Credit: Act to End NTDs | West Program / Zubin Hill)
USAID Recognizes Progress and Urges Sustainable Solutions to Control and Eliminate Disabling Diseases
This week the United States government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is holding a regional dialogue with 11 countries to recognize progress and discuss countries’ long-term plans for achieving sustainable health services for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
USAID is supporting country-led efforts to develop sustainability plans, which reinforce national ownership, establish priorities, and strengthen health systems and other sectors to deliver NTD services. During this week’s dialogue, government and technical officials will share reflections, discuss priorities, and reflect on challenges to planning, implementing, and financing health services for persons at-risk of or living with NTDs.
Chronic infection with an NTD can lead to life-long disability. Persons with advanced disease often experience stigma, suffering, and lose opportunities in education and in the workforce. Five of the most common NTDs are preventable and treatable with safe, effective, donated medicines that can control and ultimately eliminate the disease.
Since 2013, USAID has worked alongside the Government of Senegal to control and eliminate four of the most burdensome NTDs. Senegal has achieved tremendous success fighting NTDs. Partnering with the Government, USAID’s support enabled delivery of 59.5 million treatments to communities living in areas at-risk of NTDs. Now over 4 million people no longer require treatment for lymphatic filariasis and 4.8 million no longer require treatment for blinding trachoma. The Government of Senegal successfully launched a comprehensive plan for sustainable NTD health services in 2021.