West Bengal starts special drive in 5 dists to eliminate lymphatic filariasis by 2027

The West Bengal government has started mass administration of anti-filarial drugs in five districts with an aim to eliminate lymphatic filariasis by 2027, an official said on Friday. The program was launched in Bankura, Purulia, Paschim Bardhaman, Birbhum and Murshidabad and Bishnupur and Rampurhat health districts by Health Minister NS Nigam on Thursday, he said.

“The state government is committed to ensuring the welfare of its population by eliminating tropical diseases such as lymphatic filariasis. The aim is to eliminate this mosquito-borne disease from the state by 2027,” he added. The drive will last until February 18.

Lymphatic filariasis is a disabling disease transmitted by mosquitoes. Usually acquired in childhood, this disease damages the lymphatic system and, if left untreated, causes abnormal enlargement of body parts such as hydrocele (abnormal swelling of the scrotum) and lymphedema (swelling of the extremities).

"The health department will use dual drug therapy. During this period, trained health workers will visit every house in these districts and administer antifilarics to everyone except children under two years old, pregnant women and the seriously ill," he said. Till last year, the state had 35,631 lymphoedema and 13,846 hydrocele patients, he added.