Union Minister Launches Nationwide Mass Drug Administration Campaign Against Lymphatic Filariasis

New Delhi: Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, inaugurated the first phase of the Bi-annual Nationwide Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign aimed at eliminating Lymphatic Filariasis. The campaign, which spans the next two weeks, seeks to curb disease transmission by providing free preventive medications to residents in affected areas. The launch event witnessed the presence of Chhattisgarh Health Minister, Sh. Shyam Bihari Jaiswal.

Covering 92 districts across 11 states, the campaign reinforces India’s commitment to eliminating Lymphatic Filariasis by 2027, three years ahead of the global target. Prof. Baghel commended India’s resilience against deadly diseases, citing significant progress in TB elimination and nearing success in combating Kala-Azar. He emphasized the need to replicate these successes in the fight against Filaria.

Expressing confidence in the campaign’s success, Prof. Baghel stated, “We expect great success due to the launch of this bi-annual Mass Drug Administration. Last year’s coverage was 82.5%, and this year, we should make greater efforts to achieve more than 95% coverage of the eligible population.” He urged a mission-mode approach with social mobilization and active community participation, transforming the campaign into a “people’s movement.”

Chhattisgarh Health Minister, Sh. Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, highlighted the state’s dedication to eliminating Filariasis despite challenging terrain and transportation issues. Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities are actively conducted to raise awareness among affected individuals.

Background:

Lymphatic Filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, is a priority disease targeted for elimination by 2027. India has adopted a five-pronged strategy, including the ‘Mission Mode India MDA Campaign’ National Deworming Day, to accelerate progress in eliminating the disease. The 11 endemic states participating in the campaign include Assam, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Gujarat.

Presently, there are 345 lymphatic filariasis endemic districts in 20 states and union territories. Despite multiple rounds of MDA, only 138 districts have successfully closed MDA. The campaign aims to intensify efforts and achieve higher coverage for the eligible population. Senior officials from the Union Health Ministry, implementing states, and representatives from implementing agencies attended the launch event.