Towards a renewed public health regulatory and surveillance role in water, sanitation and hygiene (Editorial).

Evidence from the burden of disease studies indicates that improving water, sanitation and hygiene (WSH) is a primary disease prevention measure. It prevents 57% of diarrheal deaths, contributes to prevention and management of neglected tropical diseases, and is the first line of defense against Cholera. Moreover, water and sanitation (W&S) services and hygiene contribute to programme initiatives including new-born, child and maternal health; infection prevention and control; universal health care; antimicrobial resistance; and health emergencies. Access to W&S services is recognized by the United Nations as a human right.