Filaria Eradication Fortnight Launched in East Singhbhum

Special Drive Targets Six Blocks, Nine Lakh People

Key Points:

• Anti-filaria drive runs from February 10 to 25
• Nine lakh people to receive preventive medication
• Campaign launched by deputy commissioner in Jugsalai

JAMSHEDPUR – The filaria eradication fortnight was formally launched in East Singhbhum district on Monday.

Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi inaugurated the campaign at Kasturba Gandhi Girls Residential School. The school is located in Sundar Nagar area of Jugsalai.

However, the special drive will continue from February 10 to 25. It will cover six blocks including Potka, Patamda, Jugsalai, Musabani, Ghatshila, and Bodam.

Meanwhile, the administration has set a target of nine lakh beneficiaries. Albendazole and DEC tablets will be administered for prevention.

On the first day, special booths were set up at schools. Anganwadi centres were also used for supervised drug administration.

Moreover, health workers will visit households during remaining days. Medicines will be given directly to eligible residents.

In contrast, Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi consumed the medicines publicly. He encouraged residents to avoid rumours.

Meanwhile, he explained causes, symptoms, and prevention of filaria. He urged full cooperation for campaign success.

In addition, the district runs annual mass drug administration. The programme aims to make Jharkhand filaria-free by 2027.

Civil Surgeon Dr Sahir Pal outlined safety guidelines. Children below two years will not receive medicines.

However, pregnant women and seriously ill persons are excluded. Medicines should not be consumed empty stomach.

On the other hand, mild side effects may occur. Officials said there is no cause for panic.

Moreover, filaria spreads through mosquito bites. It causes abnormal swelling of limbs and other organs.

Earlier campaigns were reported in Potka drive. Similar initiatives were noted in earlier Jamshedpur campaign.

Statewide efforts were detailed in Jharkhand initiative. Health officials stressed continued vigilance.