63 Countries Achieve Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases

The World Health Organization (WHO) announced significant progress in the fight against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), with 63 countries having successfully eliminated at least one NTD by June 2026. This marks a notable increase from 42 countries at the end of 2020, highlighting a growing global commitment to combating these diseases. The WHO's Global report on neglected tropical diseases 2026 serves as a midterm assessment of the 2021–2030 NTD road map. It demonstrates that more nations are taking action to eliminate these diseases and that fewer individuals require treatment. According to the report, the number of people needing interventions has fallen to 1.41 billion in 2024, representing a 36% reduction since 2010 and a 19% decrease since 2020. The report also notes a remarkable 98% decline in cases of sleeping sickness since 1999, while Guinea worm disease has reached a record low of just 10 cases in 2025. These achievements reflect the effectiveness of various strategies and interventions implemented globally to address the burden of NTDs.

While the report highlights these successes, it also points out the challenges that remain. Progress has been uneven, with NTDs continuing to disproportionately affect the world's poorest and most vulnerable populations. For example, dengue cases reached a record high of 15.1 million in 2024, and deaths from vector-borne NTDs have increased. Additionally, the eradication of yaws is off track, and only three disease-specific indicators have met their 2025 milestones. This uneven progress underscores the need for sustained efforts and resources to combat NTDs effectively. International development assistance for NTDs remains concentrated among a small number of donors, which poses risks to the sustainability of NTD programs. Between 2018 and 2024, nearly 80% of total assistance came from just a few sources, making NTD programs vulnerable to sudden funding cuts that can disrupt treatment and surveillance efforts.

Moreover, resources available for NTDs are currently 30% below pre-COVID-19 levels, necessitating a reevaluation of funding strategies to ensure continued progress. Looking forward, WHO emphasizes the need for accelerated action to meet the 2030 targets for NTDs. Countries are encouraged to increase domestic financing and integrate NTD services into universal health coverage. Additionally, adapting programs to address challenges posed by conflict and climate change will be crucial. The WHO's commitment to advancing better diagnostics, medicines, and vaccines will be vital in translating scientific progress into healthier communities, ultimately aiming to reduce the burden of NTDs significantly by 2030.