PARVATHIPURAM MANYAM: In an effort to control filariasis in the district, the Parvathipuram-Manyam administration is set to undertake a Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign in Balijipeta mandal from Monday. A total of 1,014 filariasis cases were reported during a night blood survey conducted in November 2024. Among the reported cases, 195 were from Pedapenki village in Balijipeta mandal. As a result, Balijipeta mandal was selected for MDA after the number of filaria cases exceeded one percent. The district administration has made extensive preparations for the MDA.
Pedapenki village in Balijipeta mandal has witnessed a rise in filaria cases over the past few years. Initial studies suggest that inadequate drainage and sanitation systems have contributed to the spread of the disease. In response, Deputy Chief Minister Konidela Pawan Kalyan directed district officials to implement stringent health measures to control filariasis. He also sanctioned Rs 3.73 crore for improvements to the drainage system over a 4.8 km stretch in Pedapenki village.
Following this, Parvathipuram Manyam District Collector A Shyam Prasad prioritised efforts to eradicate filariasis and conducted the night blood survey in November 2024, which yielded accurate results for filariasis testing. Consequently, Balijapeta mandal has been chosen for MDA this year. Collector A Shyam Prasad held a teleconference with the relevant officials on Sunday regarding the MDA.
Medical and health officials will distribute and administer a single dose of Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) and albendazole to the entire community during the MDA on Monday. The drugs will be given to all individuals, except pregnant women, children under two years of age, and those severely ill from other conditions. The tablets should be taken after a meal to avoid stomach discomfort. The dosage for children will vary by age: 100 mg DEC and 400 mg albendazole for children aged 2 to 5 years; 200 mg DEC and 400 mg albendazole for children aged 6 to 14 years; and 300 mg DEC and 400 mg albendazole for those aged 15 and above.
Collector A Shyam Prasad stressed the importance of meticulous execution of the MDA according to age groups. He also highlighted the involvement of local Anganwadi workers, medical staff, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, private practitioners, and NGOs to ensure the smooth delivery of the medication. Special attention will be given to identifying and reaching vulnerable populations in remote villages to achieve high coverage rates and ensure the success of the MDA programme.