U.S. Sen. Todd Young (R-IN) on June 11 sponsored a bipartisan bill that aims to prevent, treat, and cure tuberculosis globally.
“Tuberculosis is preventable, treatable, and curable, yet it continues to claim far too many lives around the world,” Sen. Young said. “By helping countries combat tuberculosis before it spreads further, we can save lives, strengthen global health security, and better protect Americans from emerging infectious diseases.”
The End Tuberculosis Now Act, S. 4751, which Sen. Young introduced alongside bill cosponsor U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), seeks to improve U.S. and international coordination and prioritization of research, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases, according to a bill summary provided by Sen. Young’s office.
“The End Tuberculosis Now Act will strengthen efforts to expand access to diagnosis and treatment, support the development of new tools and vaccines, and improve our ability to detect and respond to future infectious disease threats,” said Sen. Young.
In addition, S. 4751 would advance targeted, results-driven investments toward reducing the global burden of TB while strengthening preparedness for future infectious disease threats, the summary says.
The legislation also would expand access to innovative diagnostics and treatments, support the development of new vaccines and therapies, and improve accountability for U.S.-funded TB programs.
“The United States cannot afford to look away from the threat that tuberculosis poses to Americans’ health and global health security,” said Sen. Shaheen. “By investing in TB prevention and response abroad, we save lives and protect Americans from infectious disease threats before they reach our shores.”
Joanne Carter, executive director of RESULTS, endorsed the measure, which has been referred for consideration to the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee.