Improving access to pyrantel to treat worm infections in children
Published on 2022-05-25 09:25:46

Improving access to pyrantel to treat worm infections in children

News

Amsterdam, 25 May 2022 - Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a group of infections that are extremely rare or occur in areas of extreme poverty where people have little protection from the insects or animals that carry disease. Treatment for these conditions (e.g., worm infections) are often overlooked by commercial pharmaceutical companies and as a result, treatment availability can be limited. 

Vulnerable groups

Children under the age of five in the poorest regions are especially vulnerable to NTDs, as their immune systems are still developing. NTDs are usually also more damaging to children, as these infections can lead to malnutrition, cognitive delays, and stunted growth. Malnutrition in turn makes young children more susceptible to infections, causing a vicious cycle of infection and re-infection, often for the rest of their lives if left untreated.

To bridge these gaps in access, IDA offers specific products for this group, such as pyrantel (treatment for parasitic worm infections in children aged two years and up).  We offer these products for NTDs and malnutrition related infections separately, and also as part of kits (Paediatric Severe Acute Malnutrition - PED/SAM and custom kits).

Universal Health Coverage

According to the WHO, more than 1 billion people suffer from NTDs, and their global health burden is comparable to that caused by HIV/AIDS, TB or malaria. It is estimated that worms infect one third of the world’s population, with the biggest impact on children and the poor.

In line with our mission of bridging the gap in access to medicines, and in order to reach our long-term goal of contributing to Universal Health Coverage, IDA Foundation has always ensured availability of medication that treats neglected tropical diseases.

Reach out to your IDA sales representative for more information on our NTD portfolio.