Accra: The Ghana Health Service (GHS) on Sunday launched a nationwide Mass Drug Administration (MDA) exercise targeting the control of onchocerciasis (river blindness), lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis), and schistosomiasis (bilharzia). This initiative aims to address the spread of these three Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) across 79 onchocerciasis-endemic districts in 15 regions, with an expected reach of approximately 6.3 million people by September 20.
According to Ghana News Agency, thirteen districts in eight of the 15 regions will benefit from community deworming efforts aimed at schistosomiasis. During a media briefing, Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director-General of the GHS, emphasized that the MDA is part of a broader strategy to eliminate these NTDs by 2030, aligning with global health targets. He assured that the medicines, deemed safe and effective, will be administered by trained community volunteers and health professionals to eligible individuals aged five and above.
Prof. Akoriyea highlighted that Ghana has made significant progress against lymphatic filariasis, with transmission halted in 113 of the 116 endemic districts. However, onchocerciasis remains endemic in 149 districts, and schistosomiasis poses a threat to children and women, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and unsafe water sources. He urged the public to engage fully in the exercise, underscoring the importance of controlling NTDs to alleviate poverty and enhance public health.
Dr. Joseph Larbi Opare, NTDs Programme Manager, noted that the GHS has achieved a 98 percent reduction in elephantiasis endemic districts, decreasing from 116 to two. For onchocerciasis, he mentioned that studies indicate a parasitic load of less than five percent in affected areas, with some districts reporting zero prevalence. Dr. Opare encouraged public cooperation with health workers and volunteers during the campaign.
Mr. David Agyemang, Country Director of Sights Savers, a non-governmental organization, appealed for continued support from the government and stakeholders to secure funding for NTD elimination. He stressed the need for ongoing commitment to NTD initiatives to prevent any setbacks in progress.
