The Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, has launched the Annual Nationwide Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (LF). Starting February 10, door-to-door distribution of anti-filarial medicines will cover 111 endemic districts across 13 states, aiming to protect over 17.5 crore people.
Drug Regimens
Double Drug (DA):
Diethylcarbamazine Citrate (DEC) + Albendazole
Triple Drug (IDA):
Ivermectin + Diethylcarbamazine Citrate (DEC) + Albendazole
Eligible Populations: All individuals except children under 2 years, pregnant women, and severely ill persons. Emphasize that medicines must not be consumed on an empty stomach.
"An Lymphatic Filariasis -free India is our commitment, and achieving this goal requires the participation of every citizen." - Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Health Minister
Clinical Integration: MMDP (Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention) services are being integrated with Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, and hydrocelectomy surgeries are covered under NHM and PMJAY, offering improved patient care pathways.
Call to Action: Doctors are urged to:
1. Encourage high patient compliance with prescribed regimens.
2. Conduct prompt diagnoses for suspected LF cases.
3. Guide patients on medication safety (avoid empty stomach intake, check for contraindications).
By ensuring at least 90% treatment coverage in endemic areas, this campaign aims to halt LF transmission, reduce morbidity, and move India closer to eradicating Lymphatic Filariasis by 2027.
