adminBlessings Chidakwa Chinhoyi Bureau
Government is currently conducting a mass drug administration mop-up exercise in Mashonaland West province in order to vaccinate against diseases such as bilharzia, ringworms, as well as elephantiasis (lymphatic filariasis).
The initial exercise, which targeted 588 213 people, was conducted last year, and the current process is targeting those that could have been left out.
Mashonaland West provincial health officer Mr George Kambondo said Government had enough drug stocks for the programme.
“As a province, we have decided to do a mass drug administration mop-up exercise targeting those people whom were left out during the first two phases,” said Mr Kambondo.
“Government has secured enough drugs to cater for the mop-up exercise,” he said.
He, however, urged people to take meals before being vaccinated.
According to Mr Kambondo, apostolic sects have also positively responded to the programme.
It is believed that the mass drug administration is a response to high elephantiasis cases.
While the drugs are being administered to all age groups, those meant for intestinal worms and bilharzia are specifically for children.
Elephantiasis is the second leading cause of permanent and long-term disability in developing countries.
It affects over 120 million people in 80 countries and 20 percent of the world’s population is at risk of the infection.
It can spread through mosquito bites.
Online Reporter