CAMPAIGN RAISES AWARENESS ON LYMPHATIC FILARIASIS
Cuttack (16/02/2024): Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as filaria, has been a persistent health concern in many communities, causing debilitating symptoms and affecting the lives of millions worldwide.
In a proactive effort to combat this disease, a comprehensive awareness campaign has been organised in Nischintakoili Block, Cuttack District.
Filaria, transmitted through the bite of the Culex mosquito, manifests symptoms such as rash, sore feet, and itching, often leading to severe deformities and psychological distress in patients.
Despite the absence of a cure, the disease can be effectively prevented through annual medication. Looking at the urgency to address this health issue, Community Radio Station-Radio Sampark 89.6, in collaboration with SMART, launched a targeted awareness campaign from February 1 to February 15, 2024.
The campaign aimed to educate the local population about the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment of lymphatic filariasis.
Through a multifaceted approach including community meetings, door-to-door interactions, narrowcast sessions, and radio broadcasts, the campaign directly reached over to more than 7000 individuals and indirectly impacted more than 200,000 people through social media and radio broadcasts.
The campaign, spanning across 32 villages of 10 panchayats, 15 self-help groups (SHGs), 11 schools, and 2 colleges, also featured interviews with key stakeholders such as RPI functionaries, health workers, and doctors, amplifying the message of disease prevention and community health in Nischintakoili Block.
Radio Sampark 89.6 dedicated its platform to disseminating crucial information about Filaria, emphasising the significance of for preventive measures.
