The National Vector Borne Diseases Control Program (NVBDCP) conducted meetings with district teams from Phek, Zunheboto, and Mokokchung at their respective district headquarters from August 18 to 20, 2024. The agenda of the meetings was to review the performance of ground-level workers and identify areas for improvement.
Speaking at the meetings, Dr Neisakho Kere, Joint Director and State Program Officer of NVBDCP, emphasized the importance of malaria elimination in Nagaland. He noted that the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) has directed all states to eliminate malaria by 2027, as part of India’s goal to achieve nationwide elimination by 2030.
Dr Kere highlighted that eliminating Malaria would be a significant achievement, saving many lives. He shared that in 2009, Nagaland reported 8,984 positive malaria cases with 35 fatalities. However, due to sustained efforts, the number of cases has drastically reduced each year, with only four positive cases reported last year.
He mentioned that seven districts have reported no malaria cases this year, but cases have been detected in Phek, Mokokchung, Peren, and Zunheboto. While indigenous malaria cases have significantly declined, he raised concerns about the increasing number of imported cases, which pose a risk of outbreaks. He urged districts to enhance surveillance efforts and maintain accurate documentation as the state advances toward malaria elimination.
Dr Kere also noted that changes in weather patterns and global warming are impacting vector-borne diseases. While malaria cases are decreasing, diseases such as dengue and Japanese encephalitis are on the rise. He urged field health workers to remain diligent in detecting and treating vector-borne diseases in both urban and rural areas.
Deputy Director NVBDCP, Dr Tinurenla Anichari, also encouraged district staff to intensify efforts, particularly during the transmission season. She advised motivating ASHAs (Accredited Social Health Activists) and ensuring effective coordination during house-to-house fever screenings.
The meeting was attended by district DVBOs (District Vector Borne Disease Officers), DVBCs (District Vector Borne Disease Consultants), Surveillance Workers (SW), Malaria Technical Supervisors (MTS), Statistical Investigators (SI), and Malaria Inspectors (MI).