Jharkhand Aims to Eradicate Filariasis by 2029; Awareness Vans Flagged Off for 14 Districts
Ranchi: The Jharkhand state government has launched a comprehensive public awareness campaign for the elimination of filariasis (elephantiasis). Health Minister Irfan Ansari and Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Kumar Singh officially inaugurated the campaign by personally taking the anti-filariasis medication. Awareness vans were flagged off for 14 districts of the state during the event.
The Health Minister stated that the state government aims to make Jharkhand filaria-free by 2029. He clarified that health workers will administer the medication door-to-door, and the general public should consume it without hesitation. The Additional Chief Secretary explained that only 100% compliance with the medication can completely eradicate the disease.
NHM Director Shashi Prakash Jha informed that the medication is mandatory for everyone except children under 2 years of age, pregnant women, and those with serious illnesses. The program also emphasized the use of mosquito nets and maintaining hygiene. Various health officials and representatives of social organizations were present on the occasion.
