Odisha Launches 2nd Phase of Filaria Elimination Drive Covering 1.7 Crore People
(OT Webdesk)Odisha is set to roll out the second phase of its Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign from August 10 to 19, targeting lymphatic filariasis across 12 districts.
The initiative aims to administer anti-filarial drugs—DEC, Albendazole, and Ivermectin—to 1.7 crore residents, excluding children under two, pregnant women, and the severely ill.
The campaign will be executed through 115 operational units, mobilising 41,000 Drug Administrators and 4,100 supervisors.
ASHA and Anganwadi workers, SHG members, and volunteers will conduct door-to-door visits, ensuring on-the-spot consumption of medication with a goal of 90% compliance.
Key health officials, including Dr. Amarendra Nath Mohanty and Dr. Neelakantha Mishra, emphasised interdepartmental coordination for successful implementation.
Departments such as Panchayati Raj, Education, Mission Shakti, and Urban Development have been roped in to support the drive.
This phase aligns with the National Deworming Program and reinforces Odisha’s commitment to eradicating filaria through community engagement and robust public health infrastructure.
