The WHO fungal priority pathogens list (FPPL) is the first global effort to systematically prioritise fungal pathogens, considering the unmet research and development (R&D) needs and the perceived public health importance
WHO has published a report highlighting the first-ever list of fungal “priority pathogens”-a catalogue of the 19 fungi that represent the greatest threat to public health. The WHO fungal priority pathogens list (FPPL) is the first global effort to systematically prioritise fungal pathogens, considering the unmet research and development (R&D) needs and the perceived public health importance. The WHO FPPL aims to focus and drive further research and policy interventions to strengthen the global response to fungal infections and antifungal resistance.
Three priority categories
The WHO FPPL list is divided into three categories: critical, high and medium priority. The fungal pathogens of in each priority category are so ranked primarily due to their public health impact and/or emerging antifungal resistance risk. While recognising these critical pathogens as of public health concern globally, WHO emphasises that the FPPL must be interpreted and contextualised carefully, as some endemic pathogens could be of more concern in their respective regional or local contexts.
Need for more evidence and priority areas for action
The authors of the report stress the need for more evidence to inform the response to this growing threat and to better understand the burden-both of disease and antifungal resistance. The report also highlights the urgent need for coordinated action to address the impact of antifungal use on resistance across the One Health spectrum and calls for expanding equitable access to quality diagnostics and treatments.
“We need more data and evidence on fungal infections and antifungal resistance to inform and improve response to these priority fungal pathogens” said Dr Haileyesus Getahun, WHO Director, AMR Global Coordination Department.
The FPPL report underscores strategies for policymakers, public health professionals and other stakeholders. The primary recommended actions are focused on: (1) strengthening laboratory capacity and surveillance; (2) sustaining investments in research, development, and innovation; and (3) enhancing public health interventions for prevention and control.