Bold statement: Seychelles is taking a bold, comprehensive stand against tropical and vector-borne diseases to safeguard the health of its people—and the plan is both ambitious and practical. And this is the part most people miss: the approach connects every part of society, from fieldwork to policy, to ensure real, lasting impact.
Seychelles has approved a detailed strategic plan for 2025–2030 that aims to protect public health by preventing, controlling, and eliminating diseases such as leprosy, rabies, dengue, and leptospirosis. The plan also anticipates emerging threats fueled by climate change and increased movement of people and goods, and it outlines concrete actions to stay ahead of these risks.
Vector-borne and neglected tropical diseases remain a public health challenge in Seychelles. While there has been notable progress in reducing lymphatic filariasis and soil-transmitted helminths, dengue and leptospirosis continue to be concerns. The recent re-emergence of Zika and chikungunya underscores the need for ongoing vigilance.
A One Health approach
The plan was developed through broad consultation with stakeholders from human health, animal health, and environmental sectors, embracing a One Health framework. Dr. Jude Gedeon, Public Health Commissioner, emphasized that the plan will strengthen vector-plus disease surveillance, improve cross-sector coordination, and enhance the country’s resilience as health threats evolve. He also highlighted the strategy’s emphasis on community engagement, training, and research to ground interventions in real-world needs and evidence.
Built on lessons from prior initiatives, the new strategy unifies vector control and disease management into a single, cohesive effort that benefits all communities. It aligns with the Seychelles National Health Strategic Plan (2022–2026) and with global and regional frameworks, including the Global Roadmap for Neglected Tropical Diseases, the Global Vector Control Response (2017–2030), and the African Region’s Integrated Control and Elimination Framework for Tropical and Vector-Borne Diseases.
Stronger surveillance for faster response
A national vector surveillance system is being established to monitor mosquito populations, behaviors, and insecticide resistance in real time. This system will enable early detection of transmission patterns, allowing timely interventions and rapid responses to potential outbreaks, thereby enhancing public health protection.
Dr. Rex Mpanzanje, WHO Representative in Seychelles, described the plan as a pivotal step in strengthening the country’s capacity to further prevent, control, and eliminate tropical and vector-borne diseases. He noted that it builds on Seychelles’ solid public health infrastructure and achievements to date, including interruptions in transmission of lymphatic filariasis, leprosy, and soil-transmitted helminths.
WHO contributed essential expertise for situation analysis and plan development.
Communities and individuals also have a crucial role: maintaining clean environments, reporting disease symptoms early, and staying informed about health protection measures.
