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India has successfully achieved its target to eliminate visceral leishmaniasis, commonly known as kala-azar, according to data from the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC). This accomplishment marks a significant milestone in the fight against this vector-borne disease that has posed a health challenge for decades.
Target Achievement
India had initially aimed to eliminate kala-azar by 2010, but the target was extended until 2023 due to persistent challenges. However, recent data indicates that India has met the elimination criteria set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Disease Background
Kala-azar is caused by protozoan parasites transmitted through sandfly bites, primarily affecting states like Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh.
Data and Progress
The latest data from NCVBDC shows that India reported only 520 cases of kala-azar in 2023, meeting the elimination criteria set by the WHO.
Government Interventions
Government interventions such as indoor spraying, sealing potential breeding sites, and mobilising healthcare workers have played a crucial role in achieving elimination targets.
Challenges and Remaining Issues
While progress has been made, challenges persist, particularly in states like Bihar and Jharkhand, where cases of post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) remain relatively high.
Expert Insights
Public health experts emphasize the importance of continued surveillance, robust healthcare infrastructure, and community engagement to prevent the resurgence of kala-azar and other vector-borne diseases.
Conclusion
Sustaining progress and strengthening healthcare systems will be crucial in maintaining India’s progress towards eliminating kala-azar and improving overall public health outcomes.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the elimination criteria set by the World Health Organization (WHO) for kala-azar?
A) No cases reported for five consecutive years
B) No block in the country reporting more than one case per 1,000 people
C) No block in the country reporting more than one case per 10,000 people
D) No cases reported for two consecutive years
Answer: C) No block in the country reporting more than one case per 10,000 people - What is the primary cause of kala-azar?
A) Bacterial infection
B) Fungal infection
C) Viral infection
D) Protozoan parasites transmitted through sandfly bites
Answer: D) Protozoan parasites transmitted through sandfly bites - Which states in India are primarily affected by kala-azar?
A) Kerala and Tamil Nadu
B) Maharashtra and Gujarat
C) Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh
D) Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh
Answer: C) Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh - What government interventions have contributed to India’s achievement in eliminating kala-azar?
A) Outdoor spraying
B) Vaccination campaigns
C) Indoor spraying, sealing potential breeding sites, and mobilising healthcare workers
D) Improving sanitation infrastructure
Answer: C) Indoor spraying, sealing potential breeding sites, and mobilising healthcare workers