Lucknow: The Yogi government is firmly committed to eradicating filariasis from Uttar Pradesh by 2027. In this regard, preparations for the Mass Drug Administration (MDA) Campaign, scheduled to begin on February 10, are in full swing. District-level trainers have been trained, and representatives from 33 community radio stations across the state have been sensitized during a virtual workshop to ensure the campaign’s success.
Dr. A.K. Choudhary, State Filariasis Officer, emphasized that community radios can play a pivotal role in raising awareness and ensuring the campaign reaches every household.
Safe and Effective Anti-Filariasis Drugs
During the workshop, Dr. Choudhary explained that anti-filariasis drugs are administered to healthy individuals once a year for five consecutive years, effectively stopping the spread of the disease in the area. He reassured that these drugs, often used for other diseases, are completely safe and have no side effects.
However, if someone experiences minor symptoms like itching or rashes after consuming the drug, it indicates the presence of filariasis parasites in their body, which die due to the medication. Major community radio stations such as BBD Radio, KGMU Goonj, and CMS Radio participated in the sensitization workshop.
Night Administration of Anti-Filariasis Drugs
The campaign will run from February 10 to 28 in 14 districts, including Lucknow, Unnao, Barabanki, Amethi, Ballia, Bareilly, Chitrakoot, Hamirpur, Jalaun, Jaunpur, Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur, Prayagraj, and Sonbhadra.
In 12 districts, the Triple Drug Therapy (Ivermectin, Diethylcarbamazine, and Albendazole) will be administered, while Double Drug Therapy (Diethylcarbamazine and Albendazole) will be used in Barabanki and Shahjahanpur. To ensure wider outreach, male drug administrators will accompany ASHA workers, enabling drug administration even during nighttime visits to households.
Night Blood Surveys to Monitor Filariasis Spread
In addition to drug administration, Night Blood Surveys will be conducted in these districts to monitor the spread of filariasis. Furthermore, districts not included in the MDA campaign will focus on providing MMDP Kits and training patients to protect affected body parts. Hydrocele surgeries will also continue to be performed in these regions.
Dr. Choudhary urged community radios to broadcast this information widely to ensure maximum participation and awareness among the public.
Collaborative Efforts for Success
Several organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), Global Health Strategies (GHS), PATH, PCI, SMART, and the Center for Advocacy and Research, are collaborating to support this campaign.
This comprehensive effort, backed by government initiatives and community radio engagement, is expected to drive Uttar Pradesh closer to its goal of a filariasis-free state by 2027.
