Validation of elimination of soil-transmitted helminthiases as a public health problem in children: criteria and procedure

Overview

Soil-transmitted helminthiases remain a significant cause of morbidity among children in endemic settings, requiring sustained control efforts and standardized approaches to assess progress towards elimination targets. This manual provides guidance to countries on the criteria and procedures for validating the elimination of soil-transmitted helminthiases as a public health problem in children, in line with WHO targets and the 2021–2030 neglected tropical diseases road map.

The document defines key concepts, thresholds and indicators used to assess elimination as a public health problem, including prevalence and infection intensity criteria among children aged 10–14 years. It outlines the programmatic requirements for achieving and demonstrating this milestone, including sustained preventive chemotherapy with adequate coverage, epidemiological monitoring and complementary interventions such as improvements in water, sanitation and hygiene. The manual describes the stepwise validation process, including pre-validation surveillance, impact assessments and the preparation, submission and review of a national validation dossier. It also addresses post-validation requirements to sustain gains and prevent recrudescence. Intended for national programme managers, policymakers and technical experts, the manual supports standardized, evidence-based documentation and facilitates consistent WHO validation across countries.