Kala Azar, also known as visceral leishmaniasis, is a parasitic disease caused by the Leishmania parasite, transmitted through the bite of infected female phlebotomine sandflies. It primarily affects the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, leading to symptoms like prolonged fever, weight loss, fatigue, and swelling of the spleen and liver. If left untreated, Kala Azar can be fatal. It is most prevalent in parts of Asia, East Africa, and South America, particularly in poor, rural areas with poor sanitation.
India is working towards eliminating Kala Azar (visceral leishmaniasis) through a multi-faceted approach:
- Early Detection and Treatment: The government has implemented extensive screening and diagnostic programs in affected areas to detect and treat cases early. This involves using rapid diagnostic tests and administering drugs like liposomal amphotericin B, which has proven highly effective in reducing cases.
- Vector Control: Since Kala Azar is transmitted by sandflies, vector control measures such as indoor residual spraying (IRS) and improving housing conditions have been critical. These efforts aim to reduce the sandfly population and interrupt transmission.
- Community Awareness and Health Education: Public health campaigns have raised awareness about the disease, its symptoms, and preventive measures. This is important in rural, endemic regions, particularly in states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, where the disease has historically been more prevalent.
- Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure: India has strengthened its healthcare infrastructure by training healthcare workers and improving access to healthcare facilities in endemic regions. Special attention is paid to managing HIV-VL co-infections, as these patients are at higher risk.
- International Support: India has collaborated with global health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO). The donation of 445,000 doses of liposomal amphotericin B by Gilead Sciences, through WHO, played a crucial role in treatment efforts.
By employing these strategies, India has reduced cases to less than one per 10,000 people in all affected areas, a key milestone towards the elimination of Kala Azar.
