Supporting countries endemic for Buruli ulcer

The objective of Buruli ulcer control strategy is based on early detection and treatment to minimize the severity, disability and socioeconomic burden. To achieve this objective, WHO provides support to countries to build capacity of health workers and community health workers to detect cases and ensure early treatment within the scope of the integrated control of skin NTDs. WHO has produced a number of technical and health promotional materials to support countries. Standard recording and reporting systems using BU 01, BU 02 and BU 03 are used in all countries. In addition, WHO provides antibiotics to endemic countries to ensure that all patients are treated at no cost.

Given the importance of laboratory confirmation in the management of the disease, WHO has established a network of laboratories to support countries. In 2019, WHO established the network on Buruli ulcer PCR laboratories in the WHO African Region. Pasteur Center of Cameroon coordinates this network and carries out periodic external quality assessment programme of the participating laboratories.