Maharashtra will start mass drug administration against Lymphatic Filariasis in six districts from July 1 to 15. Gadchiroli, Chandrapur, Bhandara, Gondia, Nanded, and Yavatmal will be among the six districts.
As known as Elephantiasis, filariasis is the second most disabling disease after mental health according to WHO and is transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Usually acquired in childhood, the infection damages the lymphatic system and if left untreated, causes enlargement of body parts.
In the Mass Drug Administration drive, a combination of two drugs diethylcarbamazine (DEC) and albendazole, or even three drugs Ivermectin, DEC, and Albendazole is administered to the eligible population in affected areas to prevent transmission of the disease. Of the six districts, Gadchiroli, Chandrapur, and Bhandara will undertake triple-drug therapy (IDA).