On 10th Feb, Union Health Minister JP Nadda called on states and Union Territories (UTs) to actively monitor the Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) elimination campaign and ensure political and administrative leaders are involved at the district level.
Speaking via video conference at the launch of the nationwide Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign aimed at eradicating LF, Nadda addressed health ministers and senior officials from 13 states identified as endemic for the disease.
The minister stressed the importance of a collaborative, whole-of-government approach, encouraging other ministries and departments to support campaign activities. He also urged state health ministers to engage elected representatives such as Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs), Members of Legislative Councils (MLCs), and Panchayati Raj Institutions to help mobilize communities and ensure the effective implementation of MDA efforts.
Nadda highlighted the use of digital platforms to track data on drug administration, identify campaign gaps, and monitor potential drug shortages.
While recognizing the efforts of Uttar Pradesh and Odisha in advancing filariasis elimination, Nadda emphasized the involvement of women from self-help groups to help drive the campaign’s success.
The MDA campaign targets 111 endemic districts across 13 states, with door-to-door distribution of filaria prevention medications. Lymphatic Filariasis is a parasitic disease that causes severe swelling and enlargement of body parts.
