Maharashtra and Assam Launch Targeted Filariasis Drug Drives on February 10
The pushes focus on remaining hotspots with WHO oversight to raise coverage.
Overview
- Maharashtra’s Nagpur division will administer anti-filarial medicines to 1,527,813 people across 11 blocks in Chandrapur, Bhandara and Gadchiroli.
- Health workers will use a three-drug regimen comprising DEC, Albendazole and Ivermectin, delivered through supervised booth distribution and house-to-house visits.
- Sonitpur’s Rangapara area will run a February 10–19 round targeting about 140,000 eligible residents in 11 tea gardens, with the first three days set as booth days.
- Children under two, pregnant women and severely ill individuals are excluded, and doses must be taken with food in the presence of health personnel.
- Officials cite broad prevalence declines in Vidarbha, a 2030 elimination goal for Maharashtra, and WHO monitoring to ensure equitable access.