Cross-Border Control of Priority Communicable Diseases In Sea Region Of WHO: Looking Back, Looking Ahead

This report evaluates the initiatives undertaken by the Southeast Asia Regional Office of the WHO in the mid-1990s for cross-border control of priority communicable diseases, including malaria, kala-azar, tuberculosis, and HIV, in Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal (BBIN). Despite efforts to develop joint strategies and action plans, pilot studies revealed limited success due to inadequate commitments, follow-up actions, and multi-sectoral involvement. Challenges persist, hindering progress even in 2021. By 2000, BBIN countries aimed for kala-azar elimination, making significant progress, but new foci and increasing cases from across borders remain concerns. Malaria elimination progress is impeded by imported cases. Tuberculosis and HIV strategies lack specific efforts in border districts. Suggestions include adding Myanmar to the BBIN group, treating the sub-region as a single unit, improving access to healthcare for migrants, and learning from experiences within and beyond the SEA Region. Economic costs of disease control and potential partners for cross-border collaboration are discussed. Barriers such as poor political leadership and inadequate financing need addressing, with recommendations for better coordination and collaboration among stakeholders to accelerate programs.

Southeast Asia Regional Office, Cross-border control, Communicable diseases, Health