Overview

November 10th marks the World HTLV Day, celebrated by international HTLV community and stakeholders, and WHO aims to take this opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to this virus, to engage with stakeholders, strengthen the response, and amplify awareness about HTLV. Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus type 1 (HTLV-1) causes a lifelong infection that can lead to severe diseases, premature death, disability, stigma, and reduced quality of life. In 2020, WHO published a report highlighting key priorities to improve the global response to this neglected virus. Despite its inclusion in the Global Health Sector Strategy (2022-2030), progress has fallen short.

WHO is committed to strengthening efforts, using its global network to raise awareness.

NRL's involvement

In support of world HTLV Day on the 10th of November, NRL’s Director, Dr Philippa Hetzel, is presenting at WHO’s webinar on ‘Enhancing Awareness and Strengthening the Global Response to HTLV.’ Dr Hetzel will explore the global application of HTLV testing, share NRL’s approach to HTLV diagnostics, and highlight the significance of international testing groups.