With the aim of combating and mitigating the transmission of filariasis in Kanpur, the state government is set to initiate an extensive Triple Drug Therapy (TDT) campaign in the district.
Scheduled to run from August 10 to 28, the campaign intends to administer anti-filarial medication to approximately 46.31 lakh residents of the district through both booth-based distribution and door-to-door visits by healthcare teams.
More about the campaign
Filariasis, a condition resulting from a persistent mosquito-borne parasitic infection, can lead to enduring health issues. Prolonged infection may further cause hydrocele. This ailment ranks as the second most prominent cause of lasting deformity and disability globally, following leprosy.
Presently, there are 3,551 individuals suffering from filariasis in Kanpur. Among them, 660 are afflicted with hydrocele, while the remaining 2,891 endure lymphoedema.
To ensure optimal treatment and achieve a complete medication goal, a team of 616 supervisors has been assigned the task of touring the entire district. Additionally, patients will be required to take their prescribed medicine under the supervision of ASHA workers to maintain treatment effectiveness.
How is TDT medication effective?
This TDT approach involves the simultaneous administration of 3 different medications, each targeting various stages of the filarial parasite’s life cycle.
The Triple Drug Therapy consists of a combination of drugs that includes diethylcarbamazine (DEC), ivermectin, and albendazole. By concurrently addressing various stages of the parasite’s life cycle, the Triple Drug Therapy campaign aims to maximize its impact in curbing the prevalence of the disease within the Kanpur district.
