Over 400,000 Cured Of Schistosomiasis In Nasarawa State, Says Health Commissioner

Eko Hot Blog reports the Nasarawa State Commissioner for Health, Dr Gaza Gwamna, announced that over 400,000 individuals, including children and adults, have received complete treatment for schistosomiasis in the state during the year 2023.

Dr Gwamna made this revelation during a press briefing held in Lafia to commemorate the 2024 World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day, themed ‘Unite To Act Together Towards Elimination of NTDs.’

Schistosomiasis, defined by the World Health Organisation as an acute and chronic parasitic disease caused by blood flukes (trematode worms) of the genus Schistosoma, poses severe medical and socio-economic implications for those infected.

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According to the commissioner, a collaborative effort between the Nasarawa State Ministry of Health and the Carter Centre played a pivotal role in the fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in the state. The reported figures indicate that a total of 444,785 individuals received complete treatment for schistosomiasis in 2023, comprising 398,768 children and 46,017 adults.

Dr Gwamna highlighted the challenges posed by schistosomiasis, stating, “The schistosomiasis disease has caused serious medical and socio-economic implications on the infected persons resulting in poor educational and limited professional opportunities due to stigmatization and social exclusion.”

The treatment initiative received a total of 818,829 tablets of Praziquantel, a medication used to combat schistosomiasis, targeting school-age children between the ages of 5-14 years and adults in endemic wards.

The Commissioner detailed that the program aimed to train 390 Local Integrated Health Team members, 200 health workers, 42 school supervisors, and establish more Hope Group clinics closer to clients.

Additionally, 500 Community Direct Distributors are expected to undergo training to achieve enhanced results in the ongoing efforts against schistosomiasis.

Furthermore, Dr Gwamna highlighted the successful elimination of other Neglected Tropical Diseases in the state, including Onchocerciasis, Lymphatic filariasis, and Trachoma.

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“NTDs are a threat to National and State progress and interest as they affect the achievements of Universal Health Coverage and impede poverty reduction, economic growth, and social development,” he added, emphasizing the need for continued efforts in the fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases.

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