Loiasis
Evaluation of community directed vector control on transmission of Onchocerca volvulus in a Loa loa co-endemic region
This study will pilot the Slash and Clear methodology in an oncho-Loa loa co-endemic setting. Previous pilots in Uganda and Nigeria have demonstrated that this simple strategy of removing breeding sites can result in significant black fly reductions that last for several months. This study will provide important data on the impact of Slash and Clear on black fly biting, and consequently its impact on oncho elimination. Two intervention and one control community will be compared for two years, with repeated measurements being taken of biting rates.
Field friendly biometry to ease cohort studies in resource-limited settings: application to the Test and Treat for onchocerciasis project in Central Cameroon
Can a biometric recognition system, in the context of “Test and Treat”, facilitate individual follow-up by linking participant data at different time-points?
District Mapping Onchocerciasis, Lymphatic Filariasis, and Loiasis in DRC
Pilot a strategy for mapping and treating Onchocerciasis and Lymphatic Filariasis in Loa loa coendemic areas
Development of a geostatistical mapping tool to improve decision-making for Loa loa and LF
Can serological markers for NTDs (particularly Loa loa and Lymphatic filariasis) be incorporated into geostatistical maps and used to guide program decisions around treatment and surveillance?
District Mapping Onchocerciasis, Lymphatic Filariasis, and Loiasis in Gabon
To define a cost-effective strategy to map Ivermectin-naïve districts for Onchocerciasis, Lymphatic Filariasis, and Loiasis in the context of elimination of these NTDs
Improving health workforce performance
Which strategies best strengthen strategic decision making for resilient and responsive health systems at the district level in Ghana, Malawi, Uganda and Tanzania?
Linking communities and health systems
How to best support close-to-community providers in their critical interface role between health systems and communities
Research for stronger health systems post conflict
What are the best approaches to develop sustainable and equitable approaches to human resources for health, health financing and governance in post conflict health systems?
Gender, equity, ethics & health systems
What are the most strategic approaches to building capacity for gender equity analysis in health systems?
Lead on social science
Determine the best health systems approaches for:
1. Improved planning and delivery of integrated programmes;
2. Increased and sustained access to NTD drugs;
3. Harmonised inter-sectoral approach; and
4. Strong and generalisable evidence base for integrated elimination and control of NTDs.