Ranchi, Jharkhand – In a decisive move to wipe out filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, the state government has kicked off a massive awareness campaign. Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari, alongside Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Kumar Singh, led the launch on Thursday by publicly taking the anti-filariasis medication. The event marked the flag-off of awareness chariots aimed at promoting the drive across 14 districts.
Following the ceremonial start, an orientation workshop was held to educate stakeholders on the campaign’s strategies. Dr. Ansari emphasized the government’s firm commitment to making Jharkhand filariasis-free by 2029. Health workers will fan out to every household, distributing preventive drugs door-to-door. He urged citizens to consume the medicine without hesitation or fear, highlighting its safety and efficacy.
Currently, the campaign targets 14 districts, with nine others already declared free from the disease through previous efforts. Additional Chief Secretary Singh reinforced that filariasis is entirely preventable, and achieving 100% drug coverage could eradicate it completely. Campaign Director Shashi Prakash Jha stressed preventive measures like maintaining cleanliness, preventing water stagnation, and using mosquito nets as the frontline defense.
The launch drew a wide array of participants, including officials from the National Health Mission, WHO representatives, doctors, ANMs, block chiefs, village heads, and community health workers. This collaborative effort underscores Jharkhand’s proactive stance against vector-borne diseases, building on past successes to aim for total elimination. Residents are encouraged to actively participate, ensuring the campaign’s success and paving the way for a healthier state.