Patna: Bihar’s Health Department is making significant strides toward eliminating filaria as over 1.2 crore people in the state have consumed anti-filaria medicine under the ongoing Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign. On 11 February alone, more than 60 lakh people received the medication. The campaign is set to continue until 27 February 2026.
Statewide Mega Campaign for Filaria Elimination
The MDA mega campaign, running from 10 to 27 February, aims to make Bihar completely filaria-free. Health workers are administering Ivermectin, Albendazole, and DEC doses directly to individuals at over 40,000 health camps across the state.
In addition, Jeevika workers, health department staff, and the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) are conducting community outreach and awareness programs in 395 blocks across 34 districts. The initiative ensures that residents understand the importance of taking the medication and its role in safeguarding their health.
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District-Wise Medicine Administration
To ensure proper coverage, the state has outlined district-specific strategies:
- 19 districts – including Banka, Bhagalpur, East & West Champaran, Gopalganj, Jehanabad, Katihar, Khagaria, Kaimur, Munger, Sitamarhi, Supaul, Siwan, Bhojpur, Buxar, Madhubani, Nalanda, Nawada, and Patna – are administering two medicines: Albendazole and DEC.
- 15 districts – including Aurangabad, Begusarai, Gaya, Jamui, Muzaffarpur, Saran, Shivhar, Sheikhpura, Saharsa, Vaishali, Darbhanga, Lakhisarai, Purnia, Rohtas, and Samastipur – are administering three medicines: Ivermectin, Albendazole, and DEC, under the supervision of health workers.
Ensuring Awareness and Compliance
The campaign combines medicine distribution with community engagement, using local health and social workers to educate people on the importance of completing the full dosage. This strategy ensures maximum participation and accountability, accelerating Bihar’s goal to become filaria-free.
Impact on Public Health
The ongoing campaign reflects Bihar’s commitment to improving public health infrastructure and preventing vector-borne diseases. With active community participation and close monitoring by health authorities, the initiative is expected to significantly reduce filaria prevalence in the state.
