ITANAGAR: In a promising stride towards Arunachal Pradesh’s malaria elimination goals, 14 out of 25 districts are poised to receive Malaria-free certification.
This was disclosed during the State Review Meeting (SRM) on vector-borne diseases that concluded at Hotel Dhassang, Naharlagun, on Wednesday.
Applauding the relentless efforts of the health department, Marge Sora, APCS (MD) NHM, attributed the decline in Malaria cases in the state to the unwavering dedication of the staff.
He highlighted the criticality of heightened vigilance in border areas, identified as high-risk zones.
Expressing an aspirational vision, the MD NHM voiced the ambition for the state to emerge as the pioneer state in achieving Malaria-free status nationwide.
During the SRM, the status of vector-borne diseases such as Malaria, Dengue, and Japanese Encephalitis was extensively deliberated, with a focus on advancing Malaria-free certification initiatives.
Organised by National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC), State Health Society, Arunachal Pradesh, the three-day meeting witnessed the participation of key stakeholders and health officials of the region.
Officials such as Dr L.S Singh, Senior Regional Director (MoHFW), Shillong, Dr R. Rina (Jt. DHS) Cum DHS In-charge; Dr W Lama, Jt DHS (NCVBDC), Dr KT Mulung, DDHS-cum-SPO (NCVBDC), District Programme Officers; State Consultants and District Consultants attended the do.
Dr. Singh, Senior Regional Director (MoHFW), Shillong, underscored the essence of reinforcing the “3T” approach – Test, Treat, Track – to eradicate Malaria from the state.
He underscored the significance of documentation to facilitate successful malaria elimination certification, stressing the importance of maintaining an Annual Blood Examination Rate (ABER).
Dr Rina, (Jt. DHS) Cum DHS In-charge, echoed the sentiments of appreciation, lauding the staff for their pivotal role in mitigating Malaria cases.
Setting an ambitious target, he envisioned Arunachal Pradesh eliminating Malaria by 2027 while underscoring the imperative for cautious vigilance.
Drawing from past experiences, he stressed on the resurgence of Malaria during his medical college days, advocating for enhanced preventive measures.
Additionally, the department orchestrated the Vector Borne IEC Creative Competition aimed at enhancing awareness through tailored IEC BCC content.
The competition culminated in West Siang, Namsai, and Lower Subansiri clinching the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes, respectively, underscoring the collective commitment towards fostering a healthier Arunachal Pradesh.
