Volume : V, Issue : X, October - 2015

A study on perception regarding lymphatic filariasis and Mass Drug Administration in South India

Pravin N Yerpude, Keerti S Jogdand

Abstract :

 T Introduction: Lymphatic Filariasis(LF) is a major public health problem in India.The most practical and feasible method of controlling LF is to rapidly reduce the microfilaria load in the community by annual mass drug administration (MDA) of a single dose of antifilarial drugs, i.e. of diethylcarbamazine (DEC) or ivermectin with or without albendazole. In spite of massive efforts, the program demonstrated sub–optimal coverage and consumption in urban areas than rural. People’s knowledge regarding the disease, it’s transmission, role of MDA in disease elimination, all these factors influence the compliance of MDA. So it was decided to conduct a study to assess these parameters. Materials and methods: A cross–sectional study among attendants accompanying patients of general OPD of Urban Health Centre of Katuri Medical College,Guntur (A.P.)was conducted to assess their Knowledge, attitude & perception regarding LF & MDA. Results: 198(90.83%) respondents had heard of filariasis and 83(38.07 %) believed that drug can be used to treat the disease. 169(77.52 %) and 29( 13.30%) recognize elephantiasis and hydrocele as sequelae of lymphatic filariasis respectively. Drugs during MDA were received by 171(78.44 %) no. of respondents and were consumed by 103 ( 60.23 %) of recipient. Reasons for nonconsumption of drug were fear of side effect spread by false rumor 31(45.59%), lack of knowledge regarding the program 5 (7.35%). Conclusion: Knowledge of the beneficiaries has to be strengthened, perception & attitude has to be addressed to achieve positive behavioral change which will eventually lead to higher compliance of MDA. Intensive IEC(Information, education & communication) must be done in order to improve community knowledge regarding lymphatic filariasis and role of MDA in its elimination, for the success of the programme.

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Article: Download PDF   DOI : 10.36106/ijar  

Cite This Article:

Pravin N Yerpude, Keerti S Jogdand A Study on Perception Regarding Lymphatic Filariasis and Mass Drug Administration In South India Indian Journal of Applied Research, Vol.5, Issue : 10 October 2015

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