Malaria takes an endemic form

The New Indian Express, May 9, 2007

BHAWANIPATNA: Even as government machineries are making sustained efforts to check the spread of malaria, the disease continues to pose serious threat to the people of Kalahandi and other parts of KBK region. As per a retrospective epidemiological study done by the malaria control wing of the district health department, the disease has taken an endemic form in Kalahandi due to the high prevalence of Plasmodium Falciparum (PF). The high risk pockets are the rural and inaccessible areas, the report said.

The report revealed that the annual parasite index was 19.18, 19.1 and 19.48 respectively for 2004, 2005 and 2006. PF detection from the blood slides tested was 84 percent, 83 percent and 84 percent respectively for 2004, 2005 and 2006. In some of the blocks, the prevalence percentage is alarmingly high.

For instance, in Koksara, PF occurrence is 96 percent, Golamunda 98 percent, Narla 94 percent, Madanpur Rampur 92 percent and Thuamul Rampur and Jaipatna 95 percent. Absence of health staff in inaccessible areas, vacancies in the posts of doctors and paramedical staff, shortage of trained lab technicians, and lack of awareness are some of the stumbling blocks in the eradication of the disease.

Incidentally, out of the 13 primary health centres of Kalahandi, there are no malaria laboratory technicians at Chilguda, Kalampur and Chapria PHCs. Similarly 40 newly-formed PHCs run without technicians. And, in 16 PHCs, pharmacists are being trained to take up the work of laboratory technician. In such a scenario, combating the malaria menace becomes a difficult task.

Contacted ADMO, Public Health, Dr. Susil Rath said a month-long intensive campaign for ‘indoor residual spray’ will be launched from June in the rural pockets of the district, involving NGOs and other activists. This will help in controlling the disease, he added.