Mokokchung, 26 June (MTNews): The National Vector Borne Disease Control Program (NVBDCP) in Mokokchung observed the Anti-Malaria Month with a special focus on villages bordering Assam. The month-long campaign, held under the theme “Time to deliver Zero Malaria: invest, innovate, implement,” aimed to raise awareness about malaria prevention and control measures in areas with high malaria susceptibility, low awareness, and limited access to healthcare facilities.
Several activities were carried out as part of the Anti-Malaria Month campaign. Malaria screenings were conducted in areas such as Mangkolemba, Tsurangkong, and Tuli Block, which are considered hard-to-reach areas or possible malaria susceptibility/low awareness areas. The screenings helped identify individuals who might be infected with malaria, enabling timely treatment and control measures.
In addition to screenings, awareness meetings were held with villagers to educate them about malaria prevention strategies. Distribution of malaria pamphlets in local dialogues, through miking campaigns, key messages regarding the proper usage of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) were also emphasized, promoting their effective use as a preventive measure against malaria.
The NVBDCP encouraged villagers to avail themselves of free malaria testing services provided by Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), surveillance workers, and health centers. The prompt detection and treatment of malaria cases play a crucial role in preenting the spread of the disease. During the campaign, no malaria cases were detected in the screened population.
Dr Lhishelo Tsuhah, District Vector-Borne Officer (DVBO) Mokokchung, Dr Toshimongla, Epidemiologist, and Imkummongba, DVBD Consultant, visited various health centers in Tuli, Mangkolemba, Changtongya, and Tsurangkong. They interacted with the health staff and ASHAs, emphasizing the importance of testing all fever cases for malaria and maintaining accurate reporting documentation. Such meticulous record-keeping is essential for obtaining the Malaria Elimination certificate, a testament to the district’s progress in malaria control.
To ensure a targeted approach, sample villages were selected from Mangkolemba Block, Tuli Block, and Changtongya Block. The selection criteria included consideration of past malaria records, with no reported cases since 2019, villages located near Assam and other districts, and villages situated far from healthcare facilities.