World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day

World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day

CJ Clarke/CIFF
Mass drug administration to fight soil-transmitted helminths in India
© Credits

World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day – 30 January

On 31 May 2021, the World Health Assembly (WHA) recognized 30 January as World Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) Day through decision WHA74(18).

This decision formalized 30 January as a day to create better awareness on the devastating impact of NTDs on the poorest populations around the world. The day is also an opportunity to call on everyone to support the growing momentum for the control, elimination and eradication of these diseases.

Global NTD partners had marked the celebration in January 2021 by organizing various virtual events and also by lighting up landmark monuments and buildings.

Following the adoption of decision WHA74(18), WHO has joined the NTD community in adding its voice to the global call.

30 January commemorates several events, such as the launch of the first NTD road map in 2012; the London Declaration on NTDs; and the launch, in January 2021, of the current road map.