Indian WHO surveillance network to close, as doctors warn of impact on measles and polio

A major World Health Organization hub that provides surveillance of polio and other diseases in India is set to close.

Doctors working for WHO’s National Public Health Support Network (NPSN) say that the move has put the livelihood of 800 healthcare workers and support staff across India at risk, while also leaving gaps in public health coverage.

The NPSN has provided data collation assistance and field support for the Indian government since 1999. This includes support for immunisation programmes and monitoring for measles, rubella, diphtheria, and neonatal tetanus. But the network has been winding down since 1 April, with nearly 200 of its offices facing imminent closure. Doctors said that healthcare workers, as well as support staff such as drivers and janitors, are at risk of having their employment terminated without any offer of alternative contracts, pension payouts, or compensation.

“We need stable job opportunities for staff—either in other …