Bihar Fights Filariasis: 8.97 Crore Targeted!

Bihar is embarking on a significant public health initiative with an 18-day Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign to combat lymphatic filariasis. This effort aims to reach approximately 8.97 crore individuals across 34 of the state's 38 districts, commencing on Tuesday and concluding on February 28. The campaign's success hinges on effectively managing potential adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to sustain public confidence and ensure maximum participation.

Anti-filarial medicines, including Albendazole, Diethylcarbamazine (DEC), and Ivermectin, will be administered under supervision. While reactions like nausea and headache are generally mild, they can deter people from taking the drugs. Special mega camps are planned, including one on February 11 targeting 2 crore doses for members of women's self-help groups. Trained teams will conduct household visits to ensure supervised consumption, with special school booths planned for the final three days.

Addressing drug refusal is also a key challenge, though past interventions have shown success in converting refusals to acceptance. Health officials emphasize that consistent annual medication for five years is vital for significantly reducing disease transmission. Bihar accounts for a substantial portion of India's filariasis cases, making this campaign critical for national elimination goals by 2027.