WHO Global Strategy - WASH and Neglected Tropical Diseases

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The World Health Organization has this week released an exciting new initiative titled “Water, sanitation and hygiene for accelerating and sustaining progress on Neglected Tropical Diseases – a Global Strategy 2015-2020”.

The strategy was written in collaboration between WaterAid and the WHO and highlights the role of WASH beyond disease prevention - to aspects such as self-care, tackling stigma and exclusion of people living with Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).

What are the Neglected Tropical Diseases?

Neglected tropical diseases are a diverse group of diseases with distinct characteristics that thrive mainly among the poorest populations. The 17 NTDs prioritized by WHO are endemic in 149 countries and affect more than 1.4 billion people, costing developing economies billions of dollars every year. Moreover, 16 of the 17 neglected tropical diseases are related to WASH, either in terms of prevention, care, or both.

Although most of these diseases do not result in death, they are an important part of the global burden of disease and cause pain, suffering, exclusion and poverty. NTDs affect the poorest and most marginalised individuals and groups, the strategy is therefore the first step in making sure that WASH services are specifically targeted to endemic communities.

You can read more about the strategy and accompanying Action Plan here and view some exciting infographics attached.