Page 17 – Public Health Update

National TB Preventive Treatment Protocol 2024

by Public Health Update March 9, 2025

Overview

The National TB Control Center has released the Protocol for the Management of TB Preventive Treatment (TPT), which outlines comprehensive guidelines for preventing the progression of TB infection to active TB disease. The primary objective of TPT is to prevent the progression of TB infection into TB disease.

World Tuberculosis Day 2025: ‘Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver’

Key summary

The program’s priority for TPT will be all children under 5 years old who are household contacts of people with bacteriologically confirmed pulmonary TB and all PLHIV.
TPT will also be expanded to other household contacts aged 5 years or more.
Symptom screening will be conducted for TB contacts under 5 years old and PLHIV, with TPT provided, based on the presence or absence of symptoms.
Other groups (contacts aged >5 years) will undergo additional tests (X-ray, bacteriological, and/or serological test) to rule out active TB, and only then can be initiated for TPT.
Serological tests (like TST, IGRA or TBST) to be done as available for detection of TB infection.
For non-PLHIV, the preferred TPT regimen will be a combination containing isoniazid and rifapentine (HP). However, children aged less than 2 years or less will still receive 3 months of HR, and HP will be provided to those aged 2 years and above. − If HP containing regimen is not available, then 3 HR will continue to be the choice of regimen.
For PLHIV, the preferred regimen is 3 HP. If the 3-month HP regimen is not available, a 6-month isoniazid (INH) regimen will be preferred choice for TPT.

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SSPH+ Lugano Summer School in Public Health Policy, Economics, and Management 2025

by Public Health Update March 3, 2025

written by Public Health Update

SSPH+ Lugano Summer School in Public Health Policy, Economics, and Management

The 34th edition of the SSPH+ Lugano Summer School in Public Health Policy, Economics, and Management will be held in Lugano, Switzerland, and online from August 18 to 23, 2025.

The SSPH+ Lugano Summer School in Public Health Policy, Economics, and Management places health, disease, and health systems thinking under one common framework of coherent concepts and practical implications. The education obtained and networks created serve as an opportunity to reduce and prevent the gap between public health theory and practice. Swiss Plexus builds capacity for global public health and contributes to the transformation of educational opportunity into a global common good.

The program matches health professionals, policy makers, students, and researchers from around the globe with high quality training offers provided by member institutions of the Swiss School of Public Health (SSPH+), the national coordinating body for promoting university education and research in public health sciences in Switzerland. By providing scholarships for short, skill and competency-based courses, Swiss Plexus supports the public health workforce to respond constructively to challenges of the public health sector. Swiss Plexus is run by SSPH+ and supported by a grant of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

What Lugano Summer School aims for

The Summer School focuses on Public Health Policy, Economics, and Management. The Programme aims to reduce the gap between public health theory and practice. The courses are intended for professionals and managers of health administrations, hospitals and other services and facilities within the health sector, policy-makers and students. Lugano Summer School offers an opportunity to meet new colleagues and peers, to exchange knowledge, build networks and share insights, all for the purpose of mutual learning for change.

Courses

Strategic Project Management: This course introduces participants to the basic principles, methods, and tools for project management in a realistic context, allowing them to improve their ability to manage complex projects.
Making sense of the evidence to inform programmes, policies, and practice: This course offers a thorough introduction to the methods and tools required to evaluate, synthesize, and apply evidence in public health practice and research.
Foundations of Digital Health: Navigating the evolving landscape of digital solutions for health systems strengthening: This course will focus on developing a robust understanding of the implications, constraints, and opportunities in the application of digital health solutions in health systems.
Strategic public health policy and planning: an introduction to systems thinking and modelling for evidence-based decision making: During this course, participants will learn how to model and analyze various alternative strategies using an interdisciplinary approach that brings together systems thinking, decision analysis (including economic evaluation) and complex public health challenges
Designing Programmes and Interventions for Impact from the outset: This course aims to provide participants with knowledge, key principles, and seven central tenets of an impact evaluation framework that enables them to design programmes and interventions for impact from the outset.
Digitally augmented Public Health: A practice-based approach: This course aims to foster clear thinking about the responsible and productive use of new technologies in Public Health and Epidemiology. Participants will learn tools to critically reflect on how technology can serve their goals.
Nutrition for Public Health: From Research to Policy: This course introduces participants to diet-disease relationships, the quality of that evidence, and relevance across cultures and settings by offering an overview of contemporary issues in nutrition science, public health, and diet-related policy.
Current Hot Topics in Noncommunicable diseases and health systems: This course presents current “Hot Topics” with regards to NCDs and health system responses. It provides an overview of the role of health systems and presents a variety of key issues facing health systems and the delivery of care for NCDs.
Measuring health spending and results to improve health sector performance and meet strategic objectives and inform policy reforms: This course focuses on the challenges and opportunities of tracking expenditures and assessing efficiencies to meet strategic objectives and inform policy and health system reforms.
Implementation science in healthcare: How to effectively translate evidence-based innovations into real-world settings: In this course, participants will gain the knowledge and competencies that enable them to effectively translate evidence-based innovations into their own settings.
Bridging research, policy and practice to improve the health of migrants: This course provides participants with an understanding of migration drivers, contextual factors, normative and legal frameworks, as well as the primary hurdles migrants face in obtaining healthcare.
Design Thinking: User-Centered Innovation for Public Health Professionals: During this course, participants will learn to empathize with target groups, prototype quickly, and generate creative ideas to transform the way they develop products, services, processes, and strategies.
Social behavioral design for public health programs: This course will show how behavioral insights can be used to develop effective behavior change communications and other interventions including psychological inoculation against misinformation.
Planetary Health Action: In this course, participants will learn how to visualize and integrate diverging concepts in the realms of planetary and one health in order to facilitate a collective understanding and articulate actionable interventions.

The Swiss Plexus Scholarship Programme

Prerequisites for the application

Your work/research domain is relevant for the improvement of public health.
You have a good English language level (written and oral).
You are able to FULLY commit to the classes during the times and dates indicated in the course(s) description.
You do not have other financial means to cover your registration fees.
It is highly suggested that you have a laptop.
(IF ONLINE) Your internet connection and IT equipment are sufficient to allow you to follow smoothly the online classes.
(IF ON-SITE) You are able to travel to Switzerland (no visa-related restrictions) during the SSPH+ LSS week.
Please note: due to the funder conditions, most of the scholarship are dedicated to applicants from Low and Middle Income Countries. This does not exclude persons from High Income Countries to apply, but their chances to receive a scholarship may be lower, unless new funds will be available.

Terms to apply

You MUST read the course details (content, format, date) thoroughly before applying. You will not apply for an open scholarship but for a scholarship for specific course(s). Course descriptions are available on the SSPH+ LSS website.
It is NOT possible to revise your application once it is submitted. The courses listed in the notification of acceptance are binding. In case the course is cancelled by the organizers, participants will be able to ask to withdraw their participation or choose a different course.
You can apply only for ONE scholarship format. The formats are described below.
To earn a certificate of completion and/or ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) credits, participants MUST attend at least 80% of the course, pass the final assessment, and attend the plenaries offered during the first day(s) of the selected course(s).
Scholarship winners who do not show up to the selected courses, will not be able to win another scholarship in the next four years.
The information you provide will be used for managing your application and potential participation in the summer school.
(Only for ON-SITE) The expenses pre-financed by the participants will be reimbursed after the SSPH+ LSS week. No cash reimbursement will be possible, but only wire transfers. More information will be provided in case the scholarship is granted.

Scholarships Formats

Participants can apply to different types of scholarships, both on-site and online; each type is described below. As the number of on-site scholarships is limited, we HIGHLY encourage, in case you have the possibility to do so, to apply for a partial scholarship and co-fund your participation. Having the possibility to co-finance the expenses, for example if you or your organization can pay the travel and/or accommodation, it may increase the chances to come to Lugano. More information below. If you have a good internet connection and if it is challenging to travel to Lugano (e.g. visa restrictions), please consider applying for an online scholarship.

TYPES OF ON-SITE SCHOLARSHIPS

ON-SITE FULL SCHOLARSHIP to participate in Lugano, Switzerland, covers the following costs:

Tuition costs for TWO courses in onsite or hybrid format. On-site participants can select two courses, one during the first half of the week (18-20 August) and one during the second (21-23 August). If you are willing to take just one course, please select the online scholarship.
Plenaries attendance.
Lunches at the University Canteen.
Allowance for dinners (100 CHF total).
Scheduled networking events (tentatively 2 events with apero/dinner and social activities).
Expenses for accommodation. The SSPH+ LSS will organize and book the accommodation in one of the SSPH+ LSS selected hotels for a maximum of 7 nights and for the scholarship recipient only.
Expenses for travel, health insurance, and visa. Scholarship recipients MUST self-organize and pre-finance the travel-related expenses, which will be reimbursed at the end of the SSPH+LSS up to a predefined amount. The SSPH+ LSS office will support this process with invitation letters, hotel confirmations, etc. IF the scholarship recipient cannot anticipate all these expenses, the SSPH+ LSS can support him/her ONLY with the flight booking. It is mandatory for scholarship recipients to anticipate the money for health insurance, visa fees, and trains from the airport to Lugano.

ON-SITE PARTIAL SCHOLARSHIP (TUITION + ACCOMMODATION) to participate in Lugano, Switzerland, covers the following costs:

Tuition costs for TWO courses in onsite or hybrid format. On-site participants can select two courses, one during the first half of the week (18-20 August) and one during the second (21-23 August). If you are willing to take just one course, please select the online scholarship.
Plenaries attendance.
Lunches at the University Canteen.
Allowance for dinners (100 CHF total).
Scheduled networking events (tentatively 2 events with apero/dinner and social activities).
Expenses for accommodation. The SSPH+ LSS will organize and book the accommodation in one of the SSPH+ LSS selected hotels for a maximum of 7 nights and for the scholarship recipient only.
* While all travel-related costs – flights, trains, health insurance, visa, etc. – must be self-covered by the participant.

ON-SITE PARTIAL SCHOLARSHIP (TUITION + TRAVEL) to participate in Lugano, Switzerland, covers the following costs:

Tuition costs for TWO courses in onsite or hybrid format. On-site participants can select two courses, one during the first half of the week (18-20 August) and one during the second (21-23 August). If you are willing to take just one course, please select the online scholarship.
Plenaries attendance.
Lunches at the University Canteen.
Allowance for dinners (100 CHF total).
Scheduled networking events (tentatively 2 events with apero/dinner and social activities).
Expenses for travel, health insurance, and visa. Scholarship recipients MUST self-organize and pre-finance the travel-related expenses, which will be reimbursed at the end of the SSPH+LSS up to a predefined amount. The SSPH+ LSS office will support this process with invitation letters, etc. IF the scholarship recipient cannot anticipate all these expenses, the SSPH+ LSS can support him/her ONLY with the flight booking. It is mandatory for scholarship recipients to anticipate the money for health insurance, visa fees, and trains from the airport to Lugano.
* While the accommodation costs must be self-covered by the participant. Please note that two hotels in Lugano offer special rates for LSS participants. More info in the website FAQ session – There are special prices for accommodation for paying participants.

ON-SITE PARTIAL SCHOLARSHIP (TUITION ONLY) to participate in Lugano, Switzerland, covers the following costs:

Tuition costs for TWO courses in onsite or hybrid format. On-site participants can select two courses, one during the first half of the week (18-20 August) and one during the second (21-23 August). If you are willing to take just one course, please select the online scholarship.
Plenaries attendance.
Lunches at the University Canteen.
Allowance for dinners (100 CHF total).
Scheduled networking events (tentatively 2 events with apero/dinner and social activities).
* While all travel-related costs – flights, trains, health insurance, visa, etc. – and accommodation costs must be self-covered by the participant.
The LSS office can support with the documents needed for the visa application (e.g. invitation letter). Please note that two hotels in Lugano offer special rates for LSS participants. More info in the website FAQ session – There are special prices for accommodation for paying participants.

TYPES OF ONLINE SCHOLARSHIPS

1. ONLINE SCHOLARSHIP, to participate on zoom, covers the following costs:

Tuition costs for ONE course in online or hybrid format. Online participants can select one course during the first half of the week (18-20 August) OR during the second half of the week (21-23 August).
Plenaries attendance.
Scheduled online networking events

2. HUB SCHOLARSHIP, to participate in a hub location* covers the following costs:

Tuition costs for ONE course. Hub participants can select only one course between those pre-selected by the hub organizers.
Plenaries attendance.
Scheduled online networking events.
Some hubs may provide additional services (e.g. lunches, coffee breaks, social events).

If you are a Nepalese public health professional, the Hub Scholarship is also available for the Kathmandu Hub.

* Hybrid hubs are LSS satellites where clusters of LSS participants physically gather to attend synchronous online classes of the SSPH+ LSS. Hubs provide the opportunity for face-to-face interaction within one location, both for additional discussions of course contents as well as for networking. They also ensure that participants have good technical equipment and stable network connectivity to enable remote and smooth participation in the pre-selected LSS courses. All hubs are co-created in cooperation with local partners acting as hosts. More info on the hub locations and courses below.

If you are interested in the hub participation, please see below the list of hubs available and the courses they are going to offer:

1. Hub in Prishtina, Kosovo. Will offer the following courses:

Nutrition for Public Health: From Research to Policy (18-20 August 2025)
Foundations of Digital Health: Navigating the evolving landscape of digital solutions for health systems strengthening (18-20 August 2025)
Current Hot Topics in Noncommunicable diseases and health systems (21-23 August 2025)
Design Thinking: User-Centered Innovation for Public Health Professionals (21-23 August 2025)

*The Hub will also offer simultaneous translation and lunches and coffee breaks.

2. HUB in Mogadishu, Somalia. Will offer the following course:

Nutrition for Public Health: From Research to Policy (18-20 August 2025)

*The Hub will also offer lunches and coffee breaks.

3. HUB in Chisinau, Moldova. Will offer the following course:

Nutrition for Public Health: From Research to Policy

*The Hub will also offer lunches and coffee breaks.

4. HUB in Lahore, Pakistan. Will offer the following course:

Foundations of Digital Health: Navigating the evolving landscape of digital solutions for health systems strengthening (18-20 August 2025)

5. HUB in Kathmandu, Nepal. Will offer the following course:

Current Hot Topics in Noncommunicable diseases and health systems (21-23 August 2025)

*The Hub will also offer lunches and coffee breaks.

6. HUB in Kafue/Kabwe, Zambia. Will offer the following courses:

Foundations of Digital Health: Navigating the evolving landscape of digital solutions for health systems strengthening (18-20 August 2025)
Making sense of the evidence to inform programmes, policies, and practice (18-20 August 2025)

*The Hub will also offer lunches and coffee breaks.

7. HUB in Hanoi, Vietnam. Will offer the following courses:

Current Hot Topics in Noncommunicable diseases and health systems (21-23 August 2025)
Measuring health spending and results to improve health sector performance and meet strategic objectives and inform policy reforms (21-23 August 2025)
Bridging research, policy and practice to improve the health of migrants (21-23 August 2025)

Application Guidelines

Once you choose the course(s) you want to follow, based on the scholarship format for which you will apply, you can start your application. Before opening the application link (https://usi.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_e9ijlmdPgvOP94O) we highly recommend that you prepare the following information. In fact, once the application is started you cannot exit, save it, etc.

1. BIO SKETCH – A short description of your work, academic background, expertise, and any other qualification/skill relevant for your application (Maximum 1500 character – ~ 250 words).

2. MOTIVATION – Please tell us why you want to attend the LSS, and more specifically the selected courses, and why you need a scholarship to do so (Maximum 1500 character – ~ 250 words).

3. IMPACT – Please tell us what you hope to gain out of attending the LSS this year and what is the expected impact of the LSS on your work/studies (maximum 1000 character ~ 160 words).

4. PAST LSS PARTICIPATION – If you have attended the LSS in the past, please specify when, which courses you took and how the knowledge and networks provided during the LSS impacted your work (maximum 800 character ~ 120 words).

*Be sure to include all information requested in each point!! Thanks for submitting your application before March 5, 2025, at 23:30 CET.

Read more and apply

Lugano Summer School in Public Health

March 3, 2025 0 comments

Maternal, Newborn and Child Health PH Important Day Public Health News Public Health Update

World Birth Defects Day: Every Journey Matters!

by Public Health Update March 3, 2025

written by Public Health Update

World Birth Defects Day

The World Birth Defects Day (WBDD) is observed on March 3 each year. WBDD unites stakeholders working in the field of birth defects, also known as congenital anomalies, congenital disorders or congenital conditions to raise awareness. The first WBDD was observed on 2015 with the aim to provide one global voice and a platform to all organizations and institutions engaged in birth defects related surveillance, research, prevention and care activities.

The major objectives of World Birth Defects Day are;

To prevent birth defects
To Improve care of all individuals with any birth defect and related disabilities
To Increase knowledge of the burden and causes of birth defects through epidemiologic and basic research.

Birth Defects facts

Birth defects, or congenital anomalies, are conditions that cause structural or functional abnormalities present at birth that can be identified at different stages of infancy. A specific birth defect may be caused by genetics, environmental exposures, infections, maternal nutrition, or other risk factors.
An estimated 303 000 newborns die every year, worldwide, due to birth defects – out of which an estimated 90 000 deaths occur in South-East Asia.
An estimated 240 000 newborns die worldwide within 28 days of birth every year due to birth defects. Birth defects cause a further 170 000 deaths of children between the ages of 1 month and 5 years.
Nine of ten children born with a serious birth defect are in low- and middle-income countries.
Birth defects affect nearly 8 million infants, or 6% of all infants, born globally each year.
The most common severe birth defects are heart defects, neural tube defects and Down syndrome.
Babies who survive may have a good quality of life with appropriate treatment or care, however many infants are at an increased risk for long-term disabilities.
Many birth defects can be prevented and treated. Help spread global awareness for World Birth Defects Day.

Key Message

Birth defects are common, costly and critical.
Folic acid can help prevent birth defects of the brain and spine
Taking 400ug of folic acid daily before and during pregnancy can prevent birth defects.
Consult with your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medications during pregnancy.
Attend prenatal care appointments and become up-to-date on all vaccines.
Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and taking other drugs during pregnancy.
Birth defects surveillance and research can help improve pregnancy and infant outcomes.

Source of Info: WHO &World Birth Defects Day Official website.

Message from Saima Wazed, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia

World Birth Defects Day, marked annually on 03 March, aims to raise awareness about prevention programs and improving the quality of services and care received by people with congenital anomalies, disorders or conditions.

This year, WHO is highlighting the urgent need for countries to raise awareness about birth defects, and strengthen health systems response to the specific health, development, and psychosocial needs of this population. This is coupled with the need for actions to prevent, detect and manage these congenital anomalies.

Birth defects have a significant impact on the quality of life of an individual, and place considerable burden on the families, community, society and the health-care systems. While genetics plays a major role in their etiology, many birth defects are preventable through health system interventions (rubella vaccination, identification and management of sexually transmitted infections in pregnancy, etc.) and by addressing environmental factors such as exposure to pollutants, lifestyle choices and socioeconomic conditions that affect pregnant women and fetuses.

During the past two decades, the contribution of birth defects to the cause of death among under-5 children has increased from 3.9% to 11.5% in our region. Birth defects are now the third most common cause of death (11%) among under-5 children in our region – approximately 300 every day. Additionally, they cause severe morbidity which usually is ignored or not highlighted.

Since 2014, WHO has supported all countries of the region to adopt integrated approaches for prevention, detection, management and care for birth defects. This is through collaborative actions across different national programmes for reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health; immunization; nutrition; noncommunicable diseases and other related programmes.

This has resulted in increased coverage of pre-conception folic acid supplementation, enhanced coverage of routine childhood rubella vaccination, introduction of various food fortification programmes, and establishment of a hospital-based online surveillance system (known as the SEAR Newborn Birth Defects database).

Across the Region, pregnant women receive counselling to avoid potentially harmful medications, X-rays, tobacco products, alcohol and drugs. Basic services for the management of birth defects are available in most countries. However, access to advanced treatments, rehabilitation and support for affected babies and families is limited; and access to screening is sub-optimal.

A strong focus on birth defects is supported by our Regional Roadmap for Results and Resilience, which calls for “reaffirming investment in women, girls, adolescents and vulnerable populations.”

Our Region has identified several priorities. First, countries need to prioritize birth defects high on their agenda, mobilize commitment and leadership at both policy and programme levels, with commensurate financial allocations.

Second, enhance the health system capacity for early detection and management, by introducing and scaling-up tests for newborn screening of birth defects and other conditions. The regional implementation document developed last year, for universal newborn screening of hearing impairment, eye abnormalities, and neonatal hyperbilirubinemia provides guidance on how to integrate simple tests within the existing health system.

Third, efforts should be directed towards recognizing the challenges and reducing the burden of parents, caregivers and families of children with birth defects. Countries must work together with partners, community-based networks, academic and research institutes, and organizations to enable access to services and support, including social protection.

Fourth, improving the coverage and quality of preventive interventions such as rubella immunization, food fortification and quality pre-conception and antenatal care, is imperative.

Finally, countries need to invest in establishing or strengthening their birth defect surveillance systems – with a particular focus on improving the availability, analysis and utilization of relevant data for programmatic decision-making.On World Birth Defects Day 2025, let us remind ourselves that ‘every journey matters’.

March 3, 2025 0 comments

Health Literacy, Health Education & Promotion PH Important Day Public Health Public Health Update

World Hearing Day 2025: Changing Mindsets: Empower Yourself to Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All

by Public Health Update March 3, 2025

written by Public Health Update

World Hearing Day 2025

On World Hearing Day 2025, the theme “Changing mindsets: Empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all!” encourages individuals of all ages to take action for their own ear and hearing health, as well as to support others in this important area of public health.

Building upon the 2024 focus on changing mindsets, this year’s campaign aims to inspire individuals to recognize the importance of ear and hearing health. The goal is to empower people to take proactive steps, such as protecting their hearing from loud sounds, regularly checking their hearing, using hearing devices when needed, and supporting those living with hearing loss.

By adopting these behaviors, individuals can not only improve their own ear and hearing care but also contribute to a society that values and prioritizes hearing health. Empowered individuals have the potential to create lasting change, both in their own lives and in the broader community.

Key facts (WHO)

By 2050, nearly 2.5 billion people are projected to have some degree of hearing loss, and more than 700 million will require hearing rehabilitation.
Unaddressed hearing loss poses an annual global cost of almost US$ 1 trillion.
Over 1 billion young adults are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss due to unsafe listening practices.
An annual additional investment of less than US$ 1.40 per person is needed to scale up ear and hearing care services globally.
Over a 10-year period, this promises a return of nearly US$ 16 for every US dollar invested.

Message from Saima Wazed, Regional Director of WHO South-East Asia

Each year, on 3rd March, we observe World Hearing Day to raise awareness about preventing deafness and hearing loss, while advocating for ear and hearing care worldwide. This year, under the theme “Changing Mindsets: Empower Yourself to Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All,” we reaffirm our commitment to empowering individuals, communities, and health systems to take meaningful action toward better ear and hearing health.

Hearing loss is an escalating public health challenge. Over 1.5 billion people are affected globally, with nearly 80% living in low- and middle-income countries. An estimated 400 million people experience hearing problems in our South-East Asia Region alone – a number that could rise to 660 million by 2050 if current trends continue.

These are not just statistics; they reflect real individuals whose lives, livelihoods, and well-being are deeply impacted. Unaddressed hearing loss has far-reaching consequences—influencing language development, education, employment, and mental health. However, many causes are preventable, and effective, cost-efficient interventions are available. Despite this, over 80% of ear and hearing care needs worldwide remain unmet. Bridging this gap must be a priority.

I am encouraged by progress made by Member States in strengthening ear and hearing in our Region. Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Nepal have conducted situational assessments using WHO tools and are advancing towards strategic development for strengthening ear and hearing care services. Myanmar has integrated ear and hearing care with eye care, elderly care, and mental health services at the community level. Bhutan has implemented free hearing screenings and hearing aid services for children. Indonesia has initiated integrated hearing and vision screening in schools. Field-testing of Training on Assistive Products hearing modules is being done in India.

On this World Hearing Day, I call on governments, health professionals, civil society, and individuals to prioritize ear and hearing care, challenge stigma, and advocate for greater investment in this critical area.

Together, we can ensure hearing care is accessible to all, everywhere.

March 3, 2025 0 comments

Courses Fellowships, Studentship & Scholarships Grants and Funding Opportunities International Jobs & Opportunities Master's Degree Public Health Opportunities Public Health Opportunity School of Public Health Universities & School of Public Health

LSHTM Next Generation Scholars 2025-26

by Public Health Update March 2, 2025

written by Public Health Update

Introduction

Enabling the most talented students from all backgrounds to study at LSHTM is a key strategic priority. We are excited to offer a range of widening participation scholarships to tackle barriers to further education for students from all backgrounds.

As outlined in the Strategy to Promote Access and Widening Participation, LSHTM wants to be a place where students from diverse backgrounds feel they belong, can thrive, and are valued for their unique contribution.

As part of this work, LSHTM is offering 10 scholarships, which are funded in 2025-26 by a combination of LSHTM funds – including the LSHTM Scholarship Fund – and a contribution from the University of London. These initiatives are designed to enable excellent students from groups who have been historically underrepresented in Higher Education at the postgraduate level to study, feel a sense of belonging and succeed at LSHTM.

Award details

We have 10 LSHTM Next Generation Scholarships available for entry in 2025-26.

Each scholarship award comprises:

2025-26 tuition fees (at the Home fee rate), including any mandatory field trip fees, and
a tax-free student stipend (living allowance) at the UKRI studentship rate (which is GBP 21,237.00 in 2024-25)

Eligibility criteria

This scholarship is open to applicants intending to study on a one-year, full-time, London-based intensive MSc programme at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) in 2025-26.

Eligible programmes are any of the 16 intensive Masters degrees on our MSc courses page (excluding the following joint programmes: MSc Global Mental Health, MSc One Health & MSc Veterinary Epidemiology).

You will not be eligible for the Next Generation scholarship if you already have a master’s degree, or a qualification that’s equivalent, such as an integrated master’s degree, or a qualification that’s higher than a master’s degree, such as a PhD.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

meet the criteria for Home fee status;
meet LSHTM’s minimum English language requirements (as required by LSHTM’s Admissions system);
hold an offer of admission for 2025-26 for one of LSHTM’s 16 London-based (intensive) MSc programmes of study.

The selection panel awarding this scholarship will consider responses to our contextualized admissions questions, giving preference to those applicants who are in the categories below:

Black ethnicity
Care experienced
Care giver
Disabled
Estranged from family
First generation in family to enter higher education
Refugee

How to apply

You should submit an application to study for 2025-26 for an eligible MSc programme of study, by following the instructions under the ‘How to apply’ tab on the relevant MSc programme page. We would encourage you to submit your application as early as possible to allow time for it to be processed prior to the deadline below.

Applicants should ensure that all necessary supplementary admissions documents (including references) are submitted via the admissions portal. In order to be considered for this scholarship applicants must hold an offer of admission by 11 April.

After this date, eligible offer holders will be invited to submit a supplementary question form that allows the students to explore both the barriers they have faced during their education and the ways in which they have overcome them.

Application notes

All applicants being considered for this funding are agreeing to the general terms and conditions for LSHTM scholarships.
For any queries about the application process, scholarship requirements or application deadline, please contact the LSHTM Scholarships team: scholarships@lshtm.ac.uk.
Please note that all applications will only be reviewed and processed after the deadline. All applications that are submitted before the deadline will be considered equally, regardless of submission date.
Decisions are expected to be reached, and the successful applicants notified by 23 May 2025.

Applicants whose application for study is successful will be asked to pay a deposit within 28 days of the offer of admission being sent. Applicants who are eligible for this scholarship will automatically be granted an extension to their deposit deadline until the scholarships decisions are made.

Official Announcement

Related opportunities

March 2, 2025 0 comments

Courses Fellowships, Studentship & Scholarships Grants and Funding Opportunities International Jobs & Opportunities Master's Degree Opportunities by Region Public Health Opportunities Public Health Opportunity School of Public Health Universities & School of Public Health

LSHTM Fund Scholarship 2025-26

by Public Health Update March 2, 2025

written by Public Health Update

Overview

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Fund Scholarship 2025-26 is made possible through the generous support of alumni and friends. Each year, the LSHTM Fund helps empower the next generation of global health leaders by providing financial assistance to outstanding candidates.

These scholarships have been made possible by donors to the LSHTM Fund. Supported by hundreds of alumni and friends, the LSHTM Fund provides scholarships for the next generation of global health leaders. This year’s two scholarships are intended to support excellent candidates who would be unable to take up a place of study without this financial support.

Award details

Two LSHTM Fund Scholarships are available for 2025-26. The scholarship award comprises

2025-26 tuition fees (at the overseas fee rate), including any mandatory field trip fees, and
a tax-free stipend (living allowance) of GBP 22,000.00

Eligibility criteria

This scholarship is open to applicants intending to study on a one-year, full-time, London-based MSc programme at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) in 2025-26.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

be nationals of, and resident in, low to middle income countries (as defined by the World Bank);
intend to return to a low to middle income country on completion of their MSc year at LSHTM;
confirm in writing that they would not otherwise be able to pay for the proposed programme of study;
meet LSHTM’s minimum English language requirements (as required by LSHTM’s Admissions system);
a first or upper second-class honours undergraduate degree of a UK university, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard;
hold an offer of admission for 2025-26 for one of LSHTM’s London-based (intensive) MSc programmes of study.

The selection panel awarding this highly competitive scholarship will consider applicants’ experience, qualifications and potential, looking for those with the greatest potential to accelerate in their career and make significant contributions to public and global health, and/or health-related research in a low- to middle income country (following a year’s study at LSHTM).

How to apply

The application process has two steps. To be considered for the funding, applicants must meet all eligibility criteria and complete both steps outlined below by the scholarship deadline of 23:59 (GMT) on Wednesday 05 March 2025.

Step 1
Submit an application for 2025-26 for a London-based MSc programme of study, as per instructions under the ‘How to Apply’ tab on the relevant programme of study page.
Step 2
- This will provide you with a temporary password to use the first time you login (via e-vision), which you should then update.

Once you have submitted an application to study you should receive an automated email from the Scholarships Team (scholarships@lshtm.ac.uk) providing you with the link to our online scholarships application portal.

Please search for ‘LSHTM Fund Scholarship’ if you wish to apply for this funding, and then answer all the questions online. Once you are happy with all your responses you can press submit and you should receive a confirmation of receipt email at your contact email address.
The scholarships portal will not be able to accept applications after the deadline stated above.
Scholarships team will be in touch with an outcome in due course.

Important Information:

These scholarships are open to applicants for any of the non-distance learning intensive Masters programmes offered by LSHTM (excluding our joint programmes: MSc Global Mental Health; MSc Health Policy, Planning & Financing; MSc One Health; MSc Veterinary Epidemiology).
Applicants are advised to complete Step 1 early to allow time for their GBP 50.00 LSHTM admissions application fee payment to be processed. Until the payment is processed applicants will be unable to submit an application for study.
We recommend that applicants for this funding complete and submit their application for study at least 2-3 days prior to the scholarships deadline to ensure that there are no Admissions or payment processing delays which could impact on meeting the scholarship deadline.
Incomplete or late applications will not be considered for this funding. Incomplete applications include those with missing documents at either Step 1 or 2 above.
Both the application to study and the scholarship application must be complete by the scholarship deadline as stated on the scholarships advert. Applicants should ensure that all necessary supplementary documents are submitted via LSHTM’s Admissions Portal by the scholarship deadline.
English Language Requirements – applicants must provide evidence to the Admissions team that they meet the English Language proficiency requirement by 31 July 2025. Unless otherwise stated in the Scholarship advertisement you are not required to submit evidence of English Language Test results by the Scholarship deadline.
Applicants whose application for study is successful will be asked to pay a deposit within 28 days of the offer of admission being sent. Applicants applying for scholarships at LSHTM must email the Admissions Team to advise that they are awaiting the scholarship outcome (applicants must provide the Admissions team with both the name of the scholarship and the expected decision date in this email. This must be repeated for every application for which the applicant has applied. The Admissions team will then extend the deposit deadline to match the decision deadline of the scholarship funding.
Applicants who encounter any technical difficulties whilst using the Admissions application portal should contact LSHTM’s IT Services team, providing the full name of the applicant; the scholarship that is being applied for; and the technical issue that has been encountered. Please also attach a screen shot where possible: servicedesk@lshtm.ac.uk.
For any queries about the application process, scholarship requirements or application deadline, please contact the LSHTM Scholarships team: scholarships@lshtm.ac.uk.
By applying for this funding applicants agree to its Terms & Conditions.
Please note that all applications will only be reviewed and processed after the deadline. All applications that are submitted before the deadline will be considered equally, regardless of submission date.
Decisions will be reached, and the successful applicants notified, from the week beginning 02 June 2025.

Official Info: LSHTM

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March 2, 2025 0 comments

African Region Fellowships, Studentship & Scholarships Grants and Funding Opportunities International Jobs & Opportunities Public Health Opportunities Public Health Opportunity Universities & School of Public Health

LSHTM 2025-26 GSK Scholarships for Future Health Leaders

by Public Health Update March 2, 2025

written by Public Health Update

Overview

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) provides the GSK Scholarships for Future Health Leaders to support the training and development of the next generation of global health leaders while strengthening health systems and health-related research capacity in Africa. Three scholarships are offered to support the training and development of the next generation of leaders in global health, and strengthen the capacity of health systems and health-related research in Africa.

These highly competitive scholarships are available to applicants intending to study on a one-year, full-time, London-based (face-to-face) MSc programme at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM).

Award details

Three scholarships are available for the 2025-26 academic year. Each scholarship will cover

tuition fees, including any mandatory field trip fees, and
a tax-free stipend (living allowance) of GBP 22,000.00.

Eligibility for funding

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must:

be nationals of, and resident in, countries in sub-Saharan Africa; and
intend to return to sub-Saharan Africa on completion of their MSc year at LSHTM; and
confirm that you would not be able to pay for the proposed program of study without access to this fund by applying through the online scholarship portal; and
meet LSHTM’s minimum English language requirements; and
hold a first degree at either a first or upper second class equivalency level, and
hold an offer of admission for 2025-26 for one of LSHTM’s London-based intensive MSc programmes of study

Programme

MSc Climate Change & Planetary Health
MSc Climate Change & Planetary Health (online)
MSc Clinical Trials by Distance Learning
MSc Control of Infectious Diseases
MSc Demography & Health
MSc Epidemiology
MSc Epidemiology by Distance Learning
MSc Global Health Policy by Distance Learning
MSc Global Mental Health
MSc Health Data Science
MSc Health in Humanitarian Crises by Distance Learning
MSc Health Policy, Planning & Financing
MSc Immunology of Infectious Diseases
MSc Infectious Diseases by Distance Learning
MSc Medical Microbiology
MSc Medical Parasitology & Entomology
MSc Medical Statistics
MSc Nutrition for Global Health
MSc One Health: Ecosystems, Humans and Animals
MSc Public Health
MSc Public Health by Distance Learning
MSc Public Health for Eye Care
MSc Public Health for Global Practice
MSc Reproductive & Sexual Health Research
MSc Sexual & Reproductive Health Policy and Programming (online)
MSc Tropical Medicine & International Health
MSc Veterinary Epidemiology

Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate (in their application documentation) the potential to make significant contributions to public health and/or health-related research in Africa.

How to apply

The application process has two steps. To be considered for the funding, applicants must meet all eligibility criteria and complete both steps outlined below by the scholarship deadline of 23:59 (GMT) on Wednesday 05 March 2025.

Step 1
Submit an application for 2025-26 for a London-based MSc programme of study, as per instructions under the ‘How to Apply’ tab on the relevant programme of study page.
Step 2
- This will provide you with a temporary password to use the first time you login (via e-vision), which you should then update.

Please search for ‘GSK Scholarships for Future Health Leaders’ if you wish to apply for this funding, and then answer all the questions online. Once you are happy with all your responses you can press submit and you should receive a confirmation of receipt email at your contact email address.
The scholarships portal will not be able to accept applications after the deadline stated above.
Scholarships team will be in touch with an outcome in due course.

Important Information:

These scholarships are open to applicants for any of the non-distance learning intensive Masters programmes offered by LSHTM (excluding our joint programmes: MSc Global Mental Health; MSc Health Policy, Planning & Financing; MSc One Health; MSc Veterinary Epidemiology).
Applicants are advised to complete Step 1 early to allow time for their GBP 50.00 LSHTM admissions application fee payment to be processed. Until the payment is processed applicants will be unable to submit an application for study.
We recommend that applicants for this funding complete and submit their application for study at least 2-3 days prior to the scholarships deadline to ensure that there are no Admissions or payment processing delays which could impact on meeting the scholarship deadline.
Incomplete or late applications will not be considered for this funding. Incomplete applications include those with missing documents at either Step 1 or 2 above.
Both the application to study and the scholarship application must be complete by the scholarship deadline as stated on the scholarships advert. Applicants should ensure that all necessary supplementary documents are submitted via LSHTM’s Admissions Portal by the scholarship deadline.
English Language Requirements – applicants must provide evidence to the Admissions team that they meet the English Language proficiency requirement by 31 July 2025. Unless otherwise stated in the Scholarship advertisement you are not required to submit evidence of English Language Test results by the Scholarship deadline.
Applicants whose application for study is successful will be asked to pay a deposit within 28 days of the offer of admission being sent. Applicants applying for scholarships at LSHTM must email the Admissions Team to advise that they are awaiting the scholarship outcome (applicants must provide the Admissions team with both the name of the scholarship and the expected decision date in this email). This must be repeated for every application for which the applicant has applied. The Admissions team will then extend the deposit deadline to match the decision deadline of the scholarship funding.
Applicants who encounter any technical difficulties whilst using the Admissions application portal should contact LSHTM’s IT Services team, providing the full name of the applicant; the scholarship that is being applied for; and the technical issue that has been encountered. Please also attach a screen shot where possible: servicedesk@lshtm.ac.uk.
For any queries about the application process, scholarship requirements or application deadline, please contact the LSHTM Scholarships team: scholarships@lshtm.ac.uk
By applying for this funding applicants agree to its Terms & Conditions.
Please note that all applications will only be reviewed and processed after the deadline. All applications that are submitted before the deadline will be considered equally, regardless of submission date.
Decisions will be reached, and the successful applicants notified, by week beginning 2 June 2025.

Official Information: LSHTM

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March 2, 2025 0 comments

Public Health

Statement from Global Health Council on the Mass Termination of USAID and State Department Grants

by Public Health Update March 1, 2025

written by Public Health Update

The decision to terminate thousands of USAID and State Department foreign assistance grants is a tragedy of historic proportions. With the stroke of a pen, the U.S. government has gutted decades of progress in global health, development, and humanitarian aid — without due process, transparency, or good faith consideration of the consequences.

Twenty Public Health Impacts of the U.S. Stop Work Order

This reckless and unilateral move will cost millions of lives around the world. From life-saving HIV/AIDS treatment to maternal and child health programs, from pandemic preparedness to humanitarian assistance in conflict zones, these grants provided essential support to some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. Cutting 92% of USAID’s awards and thousands more from the State Department is not just an abdication of responsibility — it is a deliberate, calculated act that will cause irreparable harm.

Despite repeated assurances that programs would be reviewed fairly and that critical assistance would continue, the administration has broken its word. The sheer scale and speed of these terminations make it clear: this was never about strategic review or fiscal responsibility. It was about dismantling America’s leadership in global health and development, with no regard for the suffering left in its wake.

The human toll will be immediate and devastating. Some of the projects terminated include:

A significant amount of HIV care and treatment work that received waivers in Lesotho, Tanzania and Eswatini. These projects were supporting more than 350,000 people on HIV treatment, including nearly 10,000 children and more than 10,000 HIV positive pregnant women.
The vast majority (very likely all) of malaria contracts that had already been approved for a waiver. One was for lifesaving essential commodities that would have protected 53M people, mostly young children and pregnant women, in Africa. Commitments for commodities including nets, diagnostics, treatment, and seasonal malaria chemoprevention to protect children from malaria before the rainy season were also cancelled.
Contracts with U.S. factories in Georgia and Rhode Island that produce a vital treatment for the most malnourished children in the world, including for emergency response in Gaza and Syria.
A project in the Democratic Republic of Congo that operates the only source of water for 250,000 people in camps for displaced people located in the center of current fighting.
Almost all of the Global Health Supply Chain project, which helps lifesaving medical supplies reach countries and health facilities all around the world.
A project in Sudan that runs the only operational health clinics in one of the biggest areas of the Kordofan region, cutting off all health services.
A nutrition program in Nigeria, requiring 77 health facilities across three states to completely stop treating children with severe acute malnutrition. This puts 60,000 children under 5 at immediate risk of death from preventable causes. In another state in Nigeria, around 140,000 children under 5, and more than 430,000 women and their families, will no longer be supported with nutrition, agriculture, and livelihood support to prevent malnutrition and provide healthier lives. Training for 10,000 health workers who were set to provide nutrition services to more than 5.6 million children and 1.7 million women in Nigeria will also not move forward.
Lifesaving nutrition and maternal health services in Nepal for over 1.7 million children under 5 and 5.7 million women. This leaves vulnerable children without access to critical wasting treatment and pregnant women without the support needed for safe pregnancies. Approximately 500,000 food-insecure families remain trapped in hunger because critical support to reach them never even began. Without intervention, the cycle of malnutrition and poverty will deepen across generations.
Maternal and child nutrition programs in Bangladesh, impacting over 144,000 people in one district, including 76,388 women and 12,888 children under 5 whose livelihood support and market linkages are now terminated.
A neglected tropical disease program in six countries, putting more than 100 million people at risk because they will miss life saving treatments for diseases like trachoma, lymphatic filariasis, and schistosomiasis. For schistosomiasis alone, 28 million school age children will be at risk of this disease that stunts growth, causes chronic pain, and leads to organ damage.
Projects dedicated to strengthening local health systems in Benin, Uganda, Liberia, Ethiopia and Uganda.

Global Health Council condemns this decision in the strongest terms. We call on Congress, the courts, and all who believe in the value of U.S. global engagement to act — before even more lives are lost.

Global Health Council (February 27, 2025)

March 1, 2025 0 comments

Global Health News National Health News PH Important Day Public Health News Public Health Update World News

A Global Call to Action for the 300 Million People Living with a Rare Disease

by Public Health Update February 28, 2025

written by Public Health Update

Rare Disease

Over 6,000 rare diseases are characterised by a wide range of conditions and symptoms that can vary not only between diseases but also among individuals with the same condition. Seventy-two per cent of rare diseases are genetic, and nearly one in five cancers is classified as rare. Some common symptoms may overlap with those of rare diseases, which can make diagnosis challenging and delay access to appropriate care. These conditions can impact daily life due to their long-term, evolving nature.

In many cases, there are limited treatment options, highlighting the need for continued research and support for individuals and families affected.

Overview

The 18th edition of Rare Disease Day unites over 70 national partners across 100 countries to raise awareness and drive policy change for the estimated 300 million people living with a rare disease worldwide.

Rare diseases may seem distant, but they are more prevalent than commonly perceived. 5% of the global population is affected at some point in their lifetime. These conditions impact families, workplaces, and entire communities, bringing complex medical, social, and economic challenges.

Key issues

Delayed Diagnoses: Patients often wait four years or longer for an accurate diagnosis, enduring uncertainty and missed treatment opportunities.
Limited Treatment Options: Over 95% of rare diseases lack approved therapies, leaving patients with few medical solutions.
Social and Economic Barriers: Families often face educational, employment, and financial difficulties, as care responsibilities disrupt daily life.
Healthcare Access Inequalities: In many regions, rare disease patients encounter barriers to accessing specialised care, particularly in underserved communities.

How to Get Involved

Rare Disease Day is a call to action. Individuals, organisations, and institutions can participate by:

Raising Awareness: Share stories and key facts using official campaign materials and hashtags.
Engaging with Communities: Host or attend awareness walks, webinars, and fundraising events.
Educating the Public: Provide resources to schools, workplaces, and public institutions.
Advocating for Policy Change: Urge decision-makers to improve healthcare access and patient support.
Supporting Research and Care Initiatives: Donate to rare disease organisations and advocate for greater funding.
Showing Solidarity: Light up buildings in Rare Disease Day colours, wear campaign-themed merchandise, or participate in virtual events.

For more information, visit RareDiseaseDay.org.

February 28, 2025 0 comments

Communicable Diseases PH Important Day Public Health Public Health Events Public Health Update

World Tuberculosis Day 2025: ‘Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver’

by Public Health Update February 25, 2025

written by Public Health Update

World TB Day

World TB Day observed annually on March 24, amplifies the urgency of ending tuberculosis—the world’s deadliest infectious disease. TB continues to devastate millions globally, inflicting severe health, social, and economic consequences. Each day, over 3400 people lose their lives to TB and close to 30,000 people fall ill with this preventable and curable disease. TB is the leading cause of death of people with HIV and a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance. WorldTB Day is an opportunity to focus on the people affected by this disease and to call for accelerated action to end TB suffering and deaths.

Global Tuberculosis Report 2024

World TB Day 2025: ‘Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver’

The theme of World TB Day 2025 – ‘Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver’ is a bold call for hope, urgency, and accountability. Aligned with this year’s theme, WHO is urging immediate and decisive action across multiple fronts:

Commit – World leaders at the 2023 UN High-Level Meeting pledged to accelerate efforts to end TB. Now, we need real action: rapid implementation of WHO guidance and policies, strengthened national strategies, and full funding.
Invest – TB cannot be defeated without proper financing. We need a bold, diversified approach to fund innovation, to close gaps in access to TB prevention, treatment and care, as well as to advance research and innovation.
Deliver – Turning commitments into action means scaling up proven WHO-recommended interventions: early detection, diagnosis, preventive treatment, and high-quality TB care, particularly for drug-resistant TB. Success depends on community leadership, civil society action, and cross-sector collaboration.

“At the second UN High-Level Meeting on TB, Heads of State reaffirmed WHO’s pivotal leadership role, explicitly mandating the organization to guide Member States toward achieving ambitious global targets,” said Dr Tereza Kasaeva, Director of WHO’s Global Programme on Tuberculosis and Lung Health. “WHO stands committed to drive progress including delivering essential normative guidance, and supporting countries to transform commitment and challenges into opportunities and concrete, measurable outcomes that can save lives. On this World TB Day, we must leverage our collective momentum and intensify action towards ending this ancient disease.”

Key facts about TB

Did you know that tuberculosis (TB) is the world’s deadliest infectious disease❓

💔 In 2023, TB was responsible for 1.25 million deaths worldwide.
🦠 Caused by bacteria that mainly affects the lungs
🗣 Spreads through the air when infected people cough, sneeze or spit
🤒 Symptoms include cough, fever, and weight loss
💉 It is preventable and curable
💊 It is treated with antibiotics
🌎 Exists in all countries and age groups, but low- and middle-income regions are most affected
⚠️ About a quarter of the global population is estimated to have been infected with TB bacteria, but most people will not develop the disease.
✅ Global efforts have saved 79 million lives since 2000! But we must do more to end TB by 2030.

Could it be tuberculosis (TB)? The symptoms often develop slowly and may go unnoticed for months.

Watch for these warning signs:

Prolonged cough
Coughing up blood or chest pain
Weight loss
Night sweats and fever
Fatigue and weakness
Children, people with HIV, and those with malnutrition are at higher risk.
TB mainly affects the lungs, however it can also affect the kidneys, spine, and brain.
About 5–10% of people infected with TB will eventually get symptoms and develop TB disease.
Seek medical attention if you have symptoms and help #EndTB for good!

How to protect yourself and others:

Tuberculosis (TB) is preventable. With the right actions, we can stop TB transmission and save lives.
TB is caused by bacteria, and spreads through the air when infected people cough, sneeze or spit.

Seek medical attention if you have symptoms like prolonged cough, fever and unexplained weight loss
Get tested if you’re at risk, especially if you have HIV or have been exposed to TB
Complete your TB treatment! Stopping early can lead to drug-resistant TB
If diagnosed with TB, avoid contact with other people, cover your mouth when coughing and wear a mask
Vaccinate children in high-risk areas
Early detection is critical to stopping the spread and ensuring effective treatment.

Key messages

Commitments secured, action required:Accelerating pace to end TB

Heads of State at the 2023 UN High-Level Meeting on TB made bold, ambitious commitments to accelerate the global fight against tuberculosis, setting concrete, measurable targets for 2027. While these pledges represent a significant milestone, sustained and intensified action is critical. Scaling up interventions requires strong policies, comprehensive national strategies, and substantial financial investment to drive impact at global, regional, and national levels.

The political declaration reinforced WHO’s central role in spearheading progress, explicitly mandating the organization to support Member States in achieving these targets. Over the next three years, WHO’s leadership will be indispensable in steering countries forward, delivering crucial normative guidance, and providing targeted technical support to translate commitments into decisive, measurable action.

Investing for Impact: Building a resilient and sustainable TB response

Sustained investment in resources, support, care, and information is essential to achieving universal access to TB care and advancing research. This is particularly crucial in closing care gaps and ensuring equitable access to prevention and treatment, aligning with WHO’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage. Increased funding is urgently needed to accelerate the rollout of WHO-recommended TB preventive treatments, shorter TB treatment regimens, rapid molecular diagnostics, and other critical innovations, including digital tools. These investments will drive significant improvements in health outcomes and save millions of lives. Equally vital is sustained investment in research and innovation to fast-track progress toward ending TB.

Funding WHO remains vital to achieving global TB targets. Any withdrawal or reduction in financial support poses a severe risk to the fight against the world’s deadliest infectious disease, threatening hard-won gains and delaying life-saving breakthroughs.

Delivering on commitments: Fast-tracking action for maximum impact

Turning commitments into real, measurable impact for people affected by TB demands more than investment—it requires bold, decisive action. This means rapidly scaling up WHO-recommended interventions, including early detection, diagnosis, preventive treatment, and high-quality TB care—especially for drug-resistant TB.Achieving this at scale requires a whole-of-society approach that not only strengthens healthcare systems but also creates safe, supportive environments where prevention and treatment can be delivered effectively. A unified, multi sectoral response is essential to dismantling the key drivers of the TB epidemic—poverty, inequity, undernutrition, co-morbidities, stigma, and discrimination—barriers that extend far beyond the health sector. Sustainable progress hinges on strong accountability, driven by community leadership, powered by civil society, and reinforced through cross-sector collaboration. WHO is leading the charge to dismantle key inequities, pushing for systemic change and inclusive policies that guarantee every individual, no matter their circumstances, has the opportunity to receive the care, support, and protection they deserve.

Calls for action

General public

Educate yourself on TB causes, symptoms and prevention.
Don’t believe in myths or misinformation.
Stand up against TB stigma and discrimination.

Health workers

Incorporate essential TB services into routine health interventions.
Deliver care that is kind, respectful of human rights and without stigma.

Ministries of Health, TB programme managers and other public health leaders

Allocate resources, especially funding, to improve the quality of TB diagnosis, prevention, treatment and care services and make them more resilient and sustainable.
Support and empower health workers to deliver high-quality TB services in line with WHO recommendations.
Ensure adequate training and up-to date information sharing for health workers on the latest WHO recommendations on TB services.

Community leaders

Ensure essential TB services are maintained and affordable in the community.
Support and empower health workers to provide essential TB services in line with WHO recommendations.
Combat stigma and discrimination to ensure that everyone feels safe to access TB services.

Youths

Support TB patients in the community with resources and advice.

More resources: WHO TB Day

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PUBLIC HEALTH INITIATIVE