Mass Drug Administration Campaign Launched in Odisha to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis

To combat Lymphatic Filariasis (LF), a debilitating vector-borne disease, the Odisha government has launched an extensive Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign across selected blocks in 12 districts.

In a proactive step to enhance awareness, the Department of Health & Family Welfare, in collaboration with the ST & SC Development, Minorities & Backward Classes Welfare Department, organised a targeted sensitisation drive across 47 Ekalavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS).

More than 5,600 students, educators, and school staff were briefed on LF transmission, prevention strategies, and the critical importance of drug compliance. Anti-filarial medication booths set up at each school encouraged on-site consumption of the drugs, while students were urged to champion awareness within their communities.

Key stakeholders, including Ms. Pranati Patro, JD and Nodal Officer of EMRS, and Dr. Prabhakar Sahoo, Additional Director cum Nodal Officer for Vector-Borne Diseases, underscored the public health importance of the campaign. Representatives from WHO, PCI, and the Directorate of Health emphasised that individual and family-level participation is vital to achieving a filariasis-free Odisha.

This coordinated effort underlines the state’s commitment to eradicating LF through education, community mobilisation, and consistent drug administration.