DILI, 24 February 2025 (TATOLI) – The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Education, has officially launched the Integrated Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) Surveys on Trachoma, Yaws, and Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH) in Timor-Leste. This initiative is made possible through the generous support of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and WHO.
Speaking at the launch, WHO Representative to Timor-Leste, Arvind Mathur, emphasized the country’s progress in combating NTDs. “Timor-Leste stands at a critical juncture, having entered the post-zero case surveillance phase for yaws—an essential step toward the elimination target outlined in the National Strategic Plan for NTDs (2021-2025).”
Neglected tropical diseases disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, particularly children. Since 2019, the Ministry of Health has integrated yaws surveillance into the national disease reporting framework. While 574 suspected cases have been reported, all tested negative, reinforcing confidence in the country’s elimination efforts.
The Integrated NTD Survey aims to:
- Confirm the absence of trachoma through serological testing in children aged 1–5 years.
- Verify yaws elimination, ensuring that latent infections remain below WHO’s elimination threshold (<1%).
- Assess the prevalence and intensity of STH infections among primary school-aged children (6–14 years).
The data collection will span seven weeks, covering 5,485 children (aged 1–5 years) for yaws and trachoma surveillance, and 1,960 children (aged 6–14 years) from 28 schools for the STH survey.
Notably, the STH prevalence study will serve as a midline indicator, evaluating the impact of deworming campaigns under the Say No to 5S (SN5S) school health project, supported by KOICA.
To support the survey, 150 participants, including doctors and laboratory technicians, have received specialized training. The National University of Timor-Leste (UNTL) is providing technical supervision and financial management, while the Ministry of Education is coordinating with schools to ensure smooth implementation.
This survey marks a significant step toward strengthening evidence-based policies and advancing NTD elimination efforts in Timor-Leste.
“We are pleased to provide technical, financial, and logistical support for these training sessions and surveys. Our close collaboration with the Ministries of Health and Education—alongside the people of Timor-Leste—will help pave the way for a healthier future,” said Arvind Mathur.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
