End Neglected Tropical Diseases Act

End Neglected Tropical Diseases Act

This bill expands programs to address neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), which are infections caused by pathogens, including viruses, microbes, and helminths (parasitic worms), that disproportionately impact individuals living in extreme poverty, especially in developing countries.

The NTDs Program of the U.S. Agency for International Development must be expanded, including by: (1) adding morbidity management to treatment plans, (2) addressing additional NTDs, and (3) establishing a research and development program.

This bill amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to expand the duties of the Coordinator of United States Government Activities to Combat HIV/AIDS Globally to include coordination of HIV/AIDS activities with NTD activities, particularly in areas that are highly endemic for female genital schistosomiasis, a parasitic worm disease.

The President must direct the U.S. representatives to the United Nations and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development to urge actions on NTDs, including deworming programs.

The Department of Health and Human Services must continue to promote the need for NTDs programs and activities through interagency groups and international forums.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention must report to Congress on NTDs in the United States.

This bill amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases or the Health Resources and Services Administration to support one or more centers of excellence for NTD research, training, and treatment.

The National Institutes of Health must establish a panel to evaluate issues relating to worm infections, including potential solutions such as deworming medicines.