Access to Critical Supplies for Neglected Diseases in the Americas

mosquito net

February 11, 2025 (PAHO) – Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations in the Americas. In addition to bearing a significant burden of these diseases, these communities face inequitable access to essential medicines and health technologies. Thanks to PAHO's technical cooperation mechanism, the Regional Revolving Funds, more than 40 countries have improved access to essential medicines, diagnostics, and products to combat diseases such as Chagas disease, Leishmaniasis, Trachoma, and rabies, ensure antivenom against venomous animal bites, and contribute to the Disease Elimination Initiative.

In 2024 alone, for example, Member States procured more than 2,500 treatments and more than 350,000 diagnostics for Chagas disease, more than 28,000 treatments and around 3,800 tests for Leishmaniasis, more than 500,000 long-lasting insecticidal nets, and more than 11.4 million canine rabies vaccines and 1.3 million vaccines and immunoglobulins for human rabies. This reflects the solidarity of the countries participating in the mechanism, which prioritizes equitable access to these critical products.

Procurement for NTDs: Solidarity and Guaranteed Access

Conventional markets often make procuring the inputs needed to treat these diseases difficult. However, the Regional Revolving Funds ensure their availability through consolidated purchases and negotiations at affordable prices.

Through PAHO's Communicable Diseases Department (CDE) warehouse, more than 1.3 million tablets of Nifurtimox were distributed, benefiting 19 endemic countries with treatments for Chagas disease. This effort enabled the provision of more than 4,500 treatments, which are essential to addressing this neglected disease. In addition, six countries received leishmaniasis treatment, and one country received tungiasis treatment.

A comprehensive approach to Leishmaniasis

The Regional Revolving Funds also stand out for their comprehensive work in fighting Leishmaniasis, a disease endemic in 15 countries in the region. Innovative tools such as QuantMET facilitate accurate planning and estimation of needs, ensuring the procurement of drugs and diagnostics. This approach provides the availability of safe and effective products and optimizes national resources to improve access to timely treatment.

Timely diagnosis and treatment: a key pillar

Early diagnosis, vector control products, and timely access to treatment are critical to eliminating neglected diseases. The Regional Revolving Fund portfolio includes essential diagnostic tests and drugs at preferential prices, enabling countries to address these diseases' challenges effectively.

The Regional Revolving Funds are a key partner for Member States because they consolidate regional efforts. They ensure equitable and sustainable access to critical inputs and promote health for all.