The extensive public awareness campaign to eliminate filariasis (elephantiasis) from the state was formally inaugurated by Health, Medical Education and Family Welfare Minister Dr Irfan Ansari and Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Kumar Singh, who themselves consumed anti-filarial medication to convey a strong public message, news agency UNI reported.
Following the launch of chariots, an orientation-cum-workshop was organised to sensitise stakeholders on strategies for effective implementation of the campaign.
On the occasion, Health Minister Dr Irfan Ansari said, "Filariasis elimination is a priority for the state government, with a target to make Jharkhand filariasis-free by 2029. "
He stated that health workers would conduct door-to-door visits to ensure distribution and consumption of anti-filarial drugs, and appealed to the public to take the medication without hesitation. He added that while the campaign is currently underway in 14 districts, it has already been completed in nine districts, and announced plans to establish medical colleges in key districts to further strengthen healthcare services.
Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Kumar Singh emphasised that filariasis is a completely preventable disease and can be eradicated through timely and complete consumption of prescribed medicines.
NHM Campaign Director Shashi Prakash Jha highlighted the severity of the disease and stressed that prevention is the most effective solution, urging eligible individuals to take the medication and adopt preventive measures such as avoiding waterlogging, using mosquito nets and maintaining cleanliness, reports UNI.
State Programme Officer Birendra Kumar Singh urged district officials to ensure 100 per cent drug consumption among eligible beneficiaries and thanked all stakeholders for their cooperation in making the campaign successful.
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