Lymphatic Filariasis: Kano State Strengthens Campaign To Eliminate disease 

The Kano State Government in North West Nigeria and a Non Governmental Organization Health and Development Programme (HANDS) are strengthening the fight against Lymphatic Filariasis in the state through grassroots awareness.

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The state Ministry of Health Department of Public Health and Disease Control, Neglected Tropical Diseases Control and Elimination Program engaged with officials from Rural Water and Sanitation RUWASA, State Universal Basic Education, Primary Health Care managers, Water Sanitation and Health WASH and Local Government Neglected Tropical Diseases NTDs for an aggressive awareness campaigns towards the elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis.

Deputy Director Public Health from the Kano State Ministry of Health Dr. Abdullahi Ahmed expressed the determination of the state to partner with stakeholders in the eradication of the disease in the state.

He said, “it is a critical meeting aimed at eradicating lymphatic Filariasis which is a disease of concern in Kano state.”

The state Lead Health and Development Programme (HANDS) Mr. Adara Priestly gave an overview of the Eliminating Lymphatic Filariasis in Africa, Morbidity management and Disease Prevention.

He informed the participants that, the Neglected Tropical Diseases NTDs Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention project in Kano State aims to address the challenges posed by NTDs through a comprehensive approach focused on morbidity management and disability prevention.

The project he explained, seeks to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by NTDs by providing access to essential healthcare services, treatment, and support.

Mr Priestly said, among the four components of the project, 500 people who undergo hydrocele surgery have been operated and offered interventions in 16 local governments.

“People that are suffering from hydrocele and lymphoma experience stigma from the society, this is where the mental health comes in and we try to offer them counselling, psychosocial support to see how see how they can overcome the trauma.”

Mr. Priestly noted that, to achieve success in the eradication of Lymphatic Filariasis involves targeted strategies and activities across multiple sectors and stakeholders to ensure effective execution.

“Stakeholder engagement, capacity building, Community level activities, Community engagement, Media Campaigns, Infrastructure Strengthening, Monitoring and feedback are key.” Mr. Priestly said.

Also speaking, the state Coordinator Neglected Tropical Diseases NTDs Dr. Abubakar Zarewa described the meeting as critical towards the elimination of lymphatic Filariasis in the state.

He called on the participants to ensure that the messages are actualized at the grassroots levels as some participants who spoke reaffirmed their commitment to community service.