In a significant move towards eradicating Lymphatic Filariasis from India, the Union Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav, virtually launched the second phase of the Nationwide Bi-Annual Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign. This initiative, held on 10th August 2024, targets 63 endemic districts across six states, including Bihar, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Odisha, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh, with the goal of eliminating the debilitating disease ahead of the global target.
The campaign's primary objective is to advance India's mission to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis by delivering preventive medications directly to the doorsteps of vulnerable populations in endemic regions. This door-to-door administration is crucial in ensuring that 90% of all eligible individuals consume the necessary preventive medicines, a key factor in halting the transmission of the disease.
At the launch event, the 'Revised Guideline on Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis' and updated Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials were released. These resources are designed to provide a clear and structured approach to eliminating the disease, guiding both health workers and the general public.
During his keynote address, Shri Prataprao Jadhav emphasized the preventable nature of Lymphatic Filariasis, a mosquito-borne disease that affects populations across 20 states and union territories in India. He underscored the importance of preventive measures, such as avoiding mosquito bites and consuming anti-filarial medicines, as essential steps to stop the disease's transmission.
The Minister also highlighted the government's broader commitment to public health, noting efforts to provide pucca houses for people currently living in vulnerable mud houses, which increase the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. Additionally, Shri Jadhav mentioned ongoing efforts to develop a vaccine for Lymphatic Filariasis and the provision of Disability Certificates to individuals affected by the disease.
Lymphatic Filariasis, a mosquito-borne disease is preventable through simple measures, therefore, the Mass Drug Administration (MDA) rounds are crucial in halting its transmission.
Shri Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav, Union Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare
The virtual event saw participation from State Health Ministers from Jharkhand, Bihar, Telangana, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka. Each minister shared their state’s achievements and ongoing efforts to combat Lymphatic Filariasis, acknowledging the support of the Union Government and reaffirming their commitment to eliminating the disease.
Shri Jadhav commended the dedication of line ministries, self-help groups, and other stakeholders who have contributed to the success of the campaign. He launched the MDA campaign by personally consuming the medicine, setting an example for the nation.
Smt. Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary and MD of the National Health Mission (NHM), highlighted that this phase of the MDA campaign is not only focused on the distribution of medications but also on ensuring that they are consumed by the target population. She stressed that the effectiveness of the campaign hinges on this crucial step.
Smt. Vandana Jain, Joint Secretary of the Health Ministry, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the Mass Drug Administration (MDA) rounds are critical in preventing the transmission of Lymphatic Filariasis and moving closer to its elimination.
The launch was attended by several senior officials, including Dr. Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services; Smt. Vandana Jain, Joint Secretary of the Health Ministry; Smt. Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary and MD (NHM), Health Ministry; and Dr. Tanu Jain, Director of the National Centre for Vector-Borne Diseases. Their presence underscored the importance of this campaign and the unified effort required to achieve its goals.
Lymphatic Filariasis, a mosquito-borne disease is preventable through simple measures, therefore, the Mass Drug Administration (MDA) rounds are crucial in halting its transmission.
Smt. Vandana Jain, Joint Secretary, Health Ministry
Enhanced Strategy for LF Elimination:
India is progressing towards eliminating Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) with the launch of the Enhanced Strategy for LF Elimination by 2027.
This strategy includes the mission mode Annual Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign.
Biannual MDA Campaign:
The MDA campaign is conducted biannually on 10th February and 10th August, alongside National Deworming Day (NDD).
2023 MDA Campaign:
Conducted in two phases, reaching 82% coverage nationally across 170 districts in 12 states.
Emphasized Directly Observed Consumption to ensure compliance.
2024 MDA Campaign - First Phase:
The first phase was conducted in 96 districts across 11 states.
Achieved a national coverage of 95% against the eligible population.
2024 MDA Campaign - Second Phase:
Scheduled for 10th August 2024, targeting 63 districts (38 triple drug & 25 double drug) across 6 states.
Covers 771 blocks as part of the MDA campaign.
Importance of Information Dissemination:
Essential to inform all households about the importance of consuming the anti-filaria drug.
The goal is to achieve a targeted drug compliance rate of over 90% against the eligible population.
Lymphatic Filariasis (LF), commonly known as elephantiasis or "Haatipaon," is a severe and debilitating disease transmitted through the bite of a Culex mosquito, which breeds in polluted water. Though the infection is typically acquired in childhood, its most visible symptoms, such as lymphoedema, elephantiasis, and hydrocele, manifest later in life, leading to permanent disability.
LF is transmitted through the bite of Culex mosquitoes, which thrive in dirty or polluted water environments. The disease is usually contracted in childhood but remains hidden for years, causing unseen damage to the lymphatic system.
Symptoms: Over time, LF leads to visible symptoms like swollen limbs (lymphoedema), elephantiasis, and scrotal swelling (hydrocele in males).
Permanent Disability: These symptoms result in long-term physical disability, severely impacting the quality of life and economic productivity.
Endemic Areas: LF has been reported in 345 districts across 20 states and union territories in India.
High Burden States: Eight states—Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal—contribute 90% of the country's LF burden.
Mission Mode MDA (Mass Drug Administration)
Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP):
Vector Control (Surveillance and management)
High-Level Advocacy
Innovative Approaches for the elimination of LF
Successful Districts: 138 endemic districts (40%) have ceased MDA after passing the Transmission Assessment Survey (TAS 1).
Continued Efforts: 159 districts in 13 states, with microfilaria rates above 1%, continue annual MDA.
Pre-TAS/TAS Stages: 41 districts are in various stages of Pre-TAS/TAS, with five districts failing Pre-TAS due to high microfilaria rates.
Postponed Campaigns: In Assam, MDA efforts in two districts have been postponed to 2025 due to ongoing challenges.
Health Consequences: Patients with lymphoedema suffer frequent infections, causing high fever, severe pain, and incapacitation, leading to lost productivity.
Global Impact: LF is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, making its elimination essential for improving public health.
Economic Development: Eliminating LF is vital for poverty alleviation and economic growth by reducing disability and improving the productivity of affected populations.
This content is purely informational and isn’t medical guidance. It shouldn’t replace professional medical counsel. Always consult your physician regarding treatment risks and benefits.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Dr. Pratiksha Jadhav/MSM)
