UPDATE: WHO interim guidance on the implementation of NTD programmes

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued interim guidance for the implementation of mass treatment interventions, active case-finding campaigns and population-based surveys in the context of COVID-19 as of 27 July 2020. This interim guidance supersedes earlier guidance published in May 2020.

The latest guidance note was developed to inform health authorities, NTD program managers and supporting partners by proposing a decision-making framework with a two-step approach:

1. A risk–benefit assessment, to decide if the planned activity should proceed; and
2. An examination of a list of precautionary measures that should be applied with the aim of decreasing the risk of transmission of COVID-19 associated with the activity and strengthening the capacity of the health system to manage any residual risk.

It also includes additional considerations, such as preparatory and collateral activities, integration with other health interventions and administration of NTD medicines, examination and interview of COVID-19 patients and other people excluded from the NTD activity.