COST Action Blog: Uniting forces in the fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases

30/01/2024

Blogs are written by COST Actions

One Health drugs against parasitic vector borne diseases in Europe and beyond (OneHealthdrugs) aims at coordinating the discovery of drugs halting human and animal (H&A) vector-borne diseases (VBD) keeping with the principles of optimal profile for both organisms, increasing the quality and delivery technologies. 


Commemorating World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day

Dear Colleagues and Partners in Global Health,

On this January 30th, we are standing together with those who suffer from Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). As a network of scientists motivated by One Health principles to tackle NTDs, we join the global community in shining a light on diseases that disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations in our world.

Recent Advances in One Health Drugs

Our concerted efforts in the realm of One Health – an integrative approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health – have led to significant strides in raising consciousness and combating NTDs. Recent breakthroughs in drug development and delivery systems demonstrate the potential of one-health drugs to provide more effective, sustainable, and accessible treatments for these diseases, as well as their interaction through sourcing, synthesis, localization, ecotoxicology, and resource planning.

The Imperative of Interdisciplinary Collaboration

The fight against NTDs cannot be won in isolation. It requires a united front, bringing together experts from virology, parasitology, pharmacology, chemistry, public health, and beyond. Our network exemplifies this collaborative spirit, and we encourage continued and expanded partnerships across disciplines and borders.

Call to Action

As we commemorate this day, let us renew our commitment to eradicating NTDs. We urge the scientific community, policymakers, healthcare providers, and all stakeholders to join us in this critical mission. Together, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those suffering from these diseases, and move closer to health equality in the world.

In Solidarity,

The OneHealthdrugs network

Additional information

Download a copy of the open letter

View the network website

View the Action webpage

WHO campaign for World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day 2024

Follow OneHealthdrugs on LinkedIn and X/Twitter