Anambra State Makes Progress in Eliminating Neglected Tropical Diseases – Commissioner

Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, has announced significant progress in the state’s efforts to prevent, control, and eliminate Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). “In collaboration with The Carter Center, the state has successfully interrupted the transmission of River Blindness (Onchocerciasis) and Lymphatic Filariasis through Mass Drug Administration and vector control programs.”

Dr. Obidike announced during a press conference in Awka to mark World Neglected Tropical Disease Day. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness about NTDs, which affect over 1.5 billion people globally and garnering support for their control and elimination by 2030.

“Public health interventions in Anambra State have targeted the prevention of NTDs such as Elephantiasis, Hydrocele, and Schistosomiasis. Efforts have included mass treatment with medications like Mectizan and Albendazole, as well as treatment centers for dog bite victims to prevent Rabies infections.

“The state government established three centres for treatment of dog bite victims against Rabies Viral Infection at Onitsha Federal Medical Centre, Ekwulobia and Enugu-Ukwu General Hospitals.

“Out of the 156 dog bite cases, 118 victims showed open wounds and bleeding and more than half received free prophylactic treatment with Anti-Rabies vaccines.

“Results indicated that 87 males and 69 females were exposed, representing 56 per cent and 44 per cent respectively.

“The incessant movement of unvaccinated homeless, stray dogs in our streets remains a big challenge of public health. We are collaborating with the Ministries of Environment and Agriculture, to control rabies viral infection in the state,” he said.

“The state has made strides in treating and preventing NTDs, with over 1 million school-age children receiving medication in 2024. However, challenges remain, particularly in controlling the movement of unvaccinated stray dogs and identifying unreported cases of NTDs.”

Dr. Obidike stressed the importance of collaboration between various sectors to combat NTDs effectively. He called on academic institutions, government agencies, and the private sector to unite in the fight against these preventable diseases.

Speaking at the event, Programme Officer Mrs Egeonu Attamah-Isiani from the Carter Centre reiterated the organization’s commitment to assisting the state in eradicating Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) and meeting the global target by 2030.

Prof. Nkiru Orji, Coordinator of the Parasitology and Public Health Society of Nigeria (PPSN) in the South-East region, emphasized the importance of the state government implementing policies and allocating more funding for NTD research. “This investment would enable the collection of data necessary for the successful elimination of these diseases.”

According to Dr Afam Aneme, the State Director of Public Health, World NTD Day is intended to raise awareness about Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) and educate residents on how to prevent and report cases for treatment as the state remains committed to achieving the WHO’s goal of eliminating NTDs by 2030.

The theme for this year’s commemoration is “Unite to Act Towards Elimination of NTDs”. The day concluded with a road walk to raise awareness among residents about NTDs.