79th WHA Individual Statements
Agenda item 12.3: Road map for neglected tropical diseases 2021–2030
The development of new health tools remains a fundamental pillar for achieving NTD control and elimination. Sustained commitment and partnership have enabled the development of simpler, safer, effective new treatments – such as acoziborole, a one-day, single-dose oral treatment for sleeping sickness. However, current health tools for many NTDs are inadequate. NTDs also disproportionately impact women and children who face double neglect because they are underrepresented in R&D. Climate change is accelerating transmission of NTDs and expanding their geographic range.
We urge Member States and WHO to finalize the R&D blueprint for NTDs, promote inclusive research that addresses medical needs of women and children and prioritize innovation for climate-sensitive diseases. We also call upon governments to close the financing gap through new financing models and integrate NTDs into health budgets and UHC packages.