In efforts to eradicate Lymphatic Filariasis in Guyana, the Ministry of Health on Saturday extended the ongoing Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign to regions one and five.
Brief launch ceremonies were held in the regions, where the ministry will be distributing the pills to fortify persons from being infected with the disease. Campaigns were also kick-started in regions three, four and six over the preceding three weeks.
Lymphatic Filariasis, also known as Elephantiasis, is a parasitic infection caused by worms transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes.
During the launch of the campaign on February 12th, the Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony encouraged persons to take their pills. He stated that if everyone takes the pill, by May the disease would be eliminated from Guyana.
Dr Jean Alexandre, PAHO’s Advisor, Health Surveillance Disease Prevention and Control, during the launch at Region Six, also encouraged persons to take the three-pill combination and encouraged other persons to take theirs as well to keep families safe.
