Strengthening data collection for neglected tropical diseases: What data are needed for models to better inform tailored intervention programmes?

• Published in: PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases
• Main Authors: Jaspreet Toor, Jonathan I D Hamley, Claudio Fronterre, María Soledad Castaño, Lloyd A C Chapman, Luc E Coffeng, Federica Giardina, Thomas M Lietman, Edwin Michael, Amy Pinsent, Epke A Le Rutte, T Déirdre Hollingsworth
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Public Library of Science (PLoS) 2021
• Subjects: Arctic medicine. Tropical medicine; RC955-962; Public aspects of medicine; RA1-1270; Arctic
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pntd.0009351; https://doaj.org/article/75055111fbfe436383f7ce38a4420ecd

Locally tailored interventions for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are becoming increasingly important for ensuring that the World Health Organization (WHO) goals for control and elimination are reached. Mathematical models, such as those developed by the NTD Modelling Consortium, are able to offer recommendations on interventions but remain constrained by the data currently available. Data collection for NTDs needs to be strengthened as better data are required to indirectly inform transmission in an area. Addressing specific data needs will improve our modelling recommendations, enabling more accurate tailoring of interventions and assessment of their progress. In this collection, we discuss the data needs for several NTDs, specifically gambiense human African trypanosomiasis, lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminths (STH), trachoma, and visceral leishmaniasis. Similarities in the data needs for these NTDs highlight the potential for integration across these diseases and where possible, a wider spectrum of diseases.