Neglected tropical diseases in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: impact and guidance

This course is intended for decision-makers and programme managers who want to learn more about neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Its 5 modules introduce NTDs, outline the impact of COVID-19 on NTD programmes and WHO’s response to mitigate its consequences, and finally present WHO’s recommendations on maintenance of essential health services for NTDs as well as guidance on adaptation and safe resumption of community-based NTD activities during the pandemic.

These materials were launched on 23/12/2020. As the scientific evidence and technical guidance regarding COVID-19 are constantly evolving, please refer to https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019 for the latest updates. Recommended publications since course launched:

• Use of medical and non-medical/fabric masks for community outreach activities during the COVID-19 pandemic (May 2021) - this policy brief provides details on face masks to be used by the different types of professionals involved in community-based interventions.
• *Third round of the global pulse survey on continuity of essential health services during the COVID-19 pandemic (February 2022) - an update on disruptions caused by COVID-19 to NTD programmes.*

 By the end of this course, participants should be able to:

• describe the main characteristics and disease burden of NTDs;
• list prevention and control measures for NTDs, within the framework of the 5 strategies recommended by WHO;
• discuss the impact of COVID-19 on NTD programmes and on transmission of NTDs, as well as WHO’s response;
• understand how to maintain essential health services in the COVID-19 pandemic context;
• understand how to adapt facility-based and community-based health care; and
• understand how to resume mass treatment, active case-finding and population-based surveys for neglected tropical diseases in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.