The Concept Paper on the Helminth Drug Initiative. Onchocerciasis/lymphatic filariasis and schistosomiasis: opportunities and challenges for the discovery of new drugs/diagnostics.

The background to TDR's search for new drugs for the management of schistosomiasis and onchocerciasis/lymphatic filariasis is summarised, along with an outline of the existing screening strategy. Recommendations are made for future efforts to maximise the possibilities for success, including the formation of a 'worm initiative' to promote a more integrated approach.