The MDA campaign is a core component of India’s LF elimination strategy.
About Lymphatic Filariasis (LF)
- It is a neglected tropical disease and is also known as “Hathi Paon” or Elephantiasis.
- Causal agent: Parasites (classified as nematodes (roundworms) of the family Filariodidea)
- Life Cycle of Filarial Parasite: Infection is typically acquired in childhood, causing hidden damage to the lymphatic system.
- Transmission: by infected mosquitoes.
- Impact: physical and long-term disabilities, lymphoedema (swelling of the limbs) and hydrocele (scrotal swelling)
What is Mass Drug Administration?
- Implementing Agency: led by National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC).
- Ministry: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
- Objective: Eliminate LF from 111 endemic districts across 13 states by eliminating microscopic filarial parasites present in the bloodstream of infected individuals.
- Medication Regimen includes:-
- Double Drug Regimen (DA): Diethylcarbamazine Citrate (DEC) and Albendazole
- Triple Drug Regimen (IDA): Ivermectin, Diethylcarbamazine Citrate (DEC) & Albendazole
- Strategy: Five-pronged strategy for eliminating LF by 2027 ahead of the SDG goal of 2030
- Mission Mode Mass Drug Administration (MDA),
- Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP),
- Vector Control (Surveillance and Management),
- High-Level Advocacy, and
- Innovative Approaches.
About National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control
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