New Delhi, February 10, 2025: Union Health Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda today launched the annual Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign aimed at the elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) in 13 identified endemic states. The event, conducted via video conference, brought together state health ministers and senior officials from the participating states, marking the beginning of the nationwide initiative to combat this debilitating disease.
The MDA campaign will provide free medication to over 17.5 crore people across 111 LF-endemic districts starting from today. This initiative is part of India’s broader strategy to eliminate LF, a parasitic disease spread through infected mosquitoes that can cause severe physical disabilities.
A Five-Pronged Strategy for Elimination
Speaking at the launch, Shri Nadda emphasized the importance of a five-pronged approach for eliminating LF, aiming for an earlier achievement than the global target set by the United Nations for 2030. “An LF-free India is our commitment, and achieving this goal requires the participation of every citizen. With a shared responsibility, we can eradicate Lymphatic Filariasis, ensuring protection for millions,” Nadda said.
The Union Health Minister highlighted the significance of ensuring high coverage, urging that over 90% of the eligible population in endemic areas consume the anti-filaria medication. “The medicines will be distributed door-to-door, and it is imperative that residents in these areas take the medication to protect themselves and their families,” he added.
Whole-of-Government Approach for Effective Campaign Execution
The MDA campaign is being led by the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Shri Nadda called for a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to ensure the success of the initiative. He emphasized the involvement of various ministries and departments to support the campaign and foster intersectoral convergence.
The campaign will focus on widespread community participation, supported by state governments, political leaders, and health workers. Shri Nadda stressed the role of political leadership in mobilizing communities and ensuring effective implementation of the program. He commended the use of digital technologies in states like Uttar Pradesh and Odisha, which have proven effective in reaching larger populations.
Commitment to Sustainable Health Solutions
The MDA campaign, which will run in 13 states—Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal—will use a combination of medicines to target the disease. These include the Double Drug Regimen (Diethylcarbamazine Citrate and Albendazole) and the Triple Drug Regimen (Ivermectin, Diethylcarbamazine Citrate, and Albendazole). The objective is to eliminate the microscopic filarial parasites in the bloodstream of infected individuals, thereby preventing further transmission of the disease.
The Union Health Minister also outlined steps to integrate Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP) services into the Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) facilities for better self-care, with nearly 50% of lymphoedema cases receiving MMDP kits annually. Additionally, hydrocelectomy surgeries will be covered under the National Health Mission (NHM) and Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY).
India’s Strong Resolve to Eliminate LF by 2027
Shri Nadda reiterated India’s commitment to eliminating LF by 2027, ahead of the global target. “India has and will continue to remain steadfast in its commitment to eradicate Lymphatic Filariasis. Our resolve is to achieve that target by 2027,” he concluded.
About the MDA Campaign
The Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign will be conducted twice a year in 111 endemic districts across 13 states. The medications are safe and effective, but certain groups, such as children under 2 years of age, pregnant women, and seriously ill individuals, should avoid taking them. The campaign aims to halt the transmission of LF by eliminating the parasite from the bloodstreams of affected individuals.
The MDA initiative reflects the Indian government’s unwavering commitment to eliminating Lymphatic Filariasis through comprehensive prevention, public awareness, and widespread participation.
Key Participants:
In addition to Union Health Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, senior officials including Union Health Secretary Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava and Addl. Secretary Smt. Aradhana Patnaik participated in the launch, underscoring the collective commitment to tackling LF in the country.
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