Combating neglected tropical diseases and promoting One Health

active

Worldwide, 1.7 billion people in 149 countries suffer from one of the 20 diseases defined as Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). 40% of all diseases can be found on the African continent. The diseases often have severe and long-lasting courses and cause economic damage both individually and economically as a whole by putting a strain on the countries' health systems and reducing the ability of those affected to work, thereby reinforcing their poverty. Even if reliable data on this is not yet available, it can be assumed that the weakening of the immune system associated with NTD infections increases the vulnerability of those affected to severe courses of COVID-19. In any case, it is undisputed that the overload of the health systems and the necessary mobility and contact restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic have had a negative impact on the fight against NTDs. Due to the widespread poverty among those affected, comparatively little attention is paid to research and development of new therapies for NTDs. Central African scientists who are working on these issues and could support their home countries in their efforts are often not sufficiently networked with the international and African research community. The project is providing EUR 18 million in support of the health ministries of the countries of the Central African Economic and Monetary Union (CEMAC) in implementing programs to treat and control NTDs. At the same time, local scientists who are working on these issues are being supported and networked with other researchers. A special focus is being placed on the interactions between human and animal health, the environment and society (One Health approach).