US HHS releases health strategy to control VectorBorne Diseases in People

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released the National Public Health Strategy to Prevent and Control VectorBorne Diseases in People (VBD National Strategy). As directed by the 2019 Kay Hagan Tick Act, named after the US Senator who died due to complications from a tickborne illness, HHS led a four-year process with civilian agencies and defence departments to deliver this strategy. Co-led by the HHS Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the strategy identifies and describes federal priorities to detect, prevent, respond to, and control diseases and conditions caused by vectors in the United States. This VBD National Strategy represents the largest formal federal coordination effort focused on vector-borne disease prevention and control with contributions by over 50 representatives across 17 federal agencies. This collaborative effort will help address the significant public health challenges related to vector-borne diseases; incorporate a One Health approach to enhance coordination and communication across human, animal, and environmental areas; and reverse the upward trends in illness, suffering, and death.