Evaluation of mass drug administration for elimination of lymphatic filariasis in Panna District of Madhya Pradesh.

BACKGROUND: Lymphatic filariasis is the second leading cause of disability worldwide accounting for more than 5 million disability adjusted life years (DALYs) annually. It has been a major public health problem in India next to Malaria. The National Health Policy 2002 aims at Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis by 2015 through Annual Mass Drug Administration (MDA) of single dose of DEC.
OBJECTIVE: To find out coverage and compliance of MDA program and awareness about lymphatic filariasis in Panna district of Madhya Pradesh.
METHODOLOGY: Cross-Sectional Study was conducted. Total 120 households was surveyed in four selected clusters of Panna district of MP.
RESULT: Out of total 640 persons only 91.56% persons were eligible for MDA. Coverage rate was 77.47% and compliance rate was 76.21%. The main reason for non-compliance was fear of side effect (37.96%). Only 60% respondents had knowledge about lymphatic filariasis and its symptoms.
CONCLUSION: For elimination of lymphatic filariasis active community participation is highly essential. It can be made possible by imparting health education. More intra and inter sectoral co-ordination is needed at all the levels.