Why in news
India has consistently maintained Kala-azar cases below one per 10,000 people for two consecutive years, meeting WHO's elimination criteria.
This achievement positions India as a potential second country in the world to eliminate Kala-azar as a public health problem, following Bangladesh.
India has significantly reduced Kala-azar cases and deaths in recent years.
Figures for 2023 and 2024 show a declining trend, with 595 cases and four deaths in 2023, and 339 cases and one death in 2024 so far.
Kala-azar
Kala-azar, also known as visceral leishmaniasis, is a parasitic disease caused by the Leishmania parasite and transmitted by the bite of an infected sandfly.
The disease is characterized by: Irregular fevers, Weight loss, Enlarged liver and spleen, and Anemia
WHO Certification
If India can maintain this declining trend for another year, it will be eligible for WHO elimination certification.
This would be a major milestone for India's public health efforts.
Challenges and Initiatives
India has faced challenges in eliminating Kala-azar due to factors such as poverty, inadequate sanitation, and ideal sandfly breeding conditions in certain regions.
Initiatives like active case detection, vector control, community awareness, and improved diagnosis and treatment have contributed to significant progress.
Future Strategies
India should focus on addressing root causes like poverty and sanitation to prevent disease recurrence.
Investing in research for vaccines and new treatments is crucial for long-term solutions.
Continued surveillance, access to rapid diagnostic tools, and readily available treatments are essential to sustain gains.
Vulnerable Regions and Efforts
States like Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and parts of Uttar Pradesh have been particularly affected by Kala-azar.
These regions have made substantial progress through increased awareness, vector control, and improved healthcare services.
The Health Ministry has implemented strategies such as early diagnosis, complete case management, integrated vector management, and community engagement to combat Kala-azar.
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