New and improved methods
Introduction
The methods described below include delivery of intermittent preventive treatment for malaria in infants through the Expanded Programme of Immunization at the time of routine vaccination. Trials completed during the biennium indicate this significantly reduces episodes of malaria and episodes of anaemia in infants. Methods to counteract malaria parasite resistance are emerging from clinical trials that have provided evidence for recommending drug policy built on artemisinin-based combinations of drugs.
Combinations of drugs are also being assessed for treatment of schistosomiasis and lymphatic filariasis, while for leprosy, a uniform multidrug therapy regimen for all types of patients is being evaluated in an effort to facilitate sustainability and integration of leprosy control.
Compliance-enhancing approaches are being evaluated for pulmonary TB and these include 4-fixed dose combination anti-TB chemotherapy and the use of fluoroquinolones to shorten the duration of TB treatment. Other methods include one for onchocerciasis whereby schoolchildren are monitored for ivermectin treatment; this has been found to give a good indication of the whole community’s coverage by treatment. These new and improved methods are the focus of area C in the TDR strategy.