MEC of Health and Wellness raises awareness for often neglected Tropical Diseases Day
Johannesburg accounts for 24% of the total number of cases including leprosy and schistosomiasis.
Teaser: Johannesburg accounts for 24% of the total number of cases including leprosy and schistosomiasis.
The MEC of Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko visited Diepsloot on January 30 to raise awareness about Neglected Tropical Diseases Day (NTD).
This was because the area was identified as one of the communities known for low socio-economic progress, characterised by substandard housing, lack of access to safe water and sanitation, and filthy environments.
The province reported 373 cases of schistosomiasis and one case of leprosy, with the majority of cases concentrated in the metros.
Of the reported cases, the Johannesburg District accounted for 24% (90/373) of the total.
“These neglected tropical diseases have a significant impact, causing disability, disfigurement, and even death. This all hinders economic development which perpetuates the cycle of poverty.”
“We need collective efforts in the fight against NTDs. It is important to understand that the fight against NTDs is not only a medical quest but also a battle against the factors that perpetuate poverty and inequality. These diseases are often rooted in the very fabric of the communities they afflict. Their impact extends far beyond health implications which present a complex challenge,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.
She said they are calling on society at large including the private sector, NGOs, donors, implementing partners, and businesses to support the fight against NTDs.
“Private-public partnerships are key to making progress in controlling and eliminating NTDs,” she said.
The MEC encouraged the community to come together and fight the disease through improved hygiene practices, such as washing hands, fruits and vegetables before eating.
“NTDs are a diverse group of communicable diseases that primarily affect the world’s poorest and most marginalised populations, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. These diseases, including but not limited to, malaria, dengue fever, schistosomiasis, and leprosy, continue to be a major public health challenge, causing significant morbidity and mortality across the globe.”
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