The Anambra State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and The Carter Center, has commenced a statewide assessment to determine the prevalence of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and evaluate the impact of previous mass drug administration programmes.
The exercise includes the Lymphatic Filariasis Transmission Assessment Survey (TAS) and an impact assessment of interventions against schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis.
Speaking during the training of assessment teams in Awka, the Director of Public Health, represented by Dr. Emmanuel Obikwelu, said the survey is aimed at confirming that the diseases have not re-emerged and that transmission remains below sustainable levels.
Representatives of The Carter Center and the Federal Ministry of Health described the exercise as a critical step towards eliminating lymphatic filariasis, schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminth infections in the state, urging participants to ensure a successful and accurate assessment.
