Work toward this outcome aims to increase the capacity of health services networks to prevent and reduce morbidity, disability, and mortality related to communicable diseases, by ensuring access to interventions throughout the life course and by giving particular attention to the specific needs of groups in conditions of vulnerability. The response capacity of the first level of integrated health services networks will be prioritized, and interventions will also address the social and environmental determinants and inequities that surround these diseases. Emphasis will be on:

a) Increased access to comprehensive, quality health services and interventions throughout the life course, within a PHC/universal health approach.

b) Increased synergies between communicable disease-specific interventions and established service platforms for maternal and child health and immunization campaigns, among others.

c) Increased access to interventions for sexually transmitted infections, HIV/AIDS, viral hepatitis, and tuberculosis, and for zoonotic, foodborne, waterborne, neglected, and vector-borne diseases.

d) Increased vaccination coverage, especially for hard-to-reach populations and communities.

e) Strengthening of the systems, services, and methods for communicable disease surveillance.

Note: For further details on the scope of this Outcome, please refer to the PAHO Strategic Plan 20-25 Document.