What is Kala azar?
Kala azar, also known as visceral leishmaniasis, is a parasitic disease transmitted by sandflies, characterized by fever, weight loss, and an enlarged spleen and liver.
How is India combating Kala azar?
India has implemented strategies like effective indoor residual spraying, construction improvements to prevent breeding of sandflies, and the use of the antimicrobial drug amphotericin B for treatment.
What was India’s target year for Kala azar elimination?
The initial target was set for 2015. After a few extensions, the current progress indicates a possible elimination by the end of 2023.
What challenges does India face in eliminating Kala azar?
Challenges include ensuring effective spraying, monitoring the construction of 'kuccha' walls, and ensuring the complete treatment of infected individuals with PKDL to prevent the spread of the disease.
Why is it important to eliminate Kala azar?
Eliminating Kala azar is crucial for reducing mortality and morbidity associated with the disease and improving the overall health standards in the affected regions.
Which regions in India are most affected by Kala azar?
The states of Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh have historically been the most affected by Kala azar. Intensive efforts to eliminate the disease have been focused on these areas.
Are there specific districts that are a priority for Kala azar elimination?
Yes, there are particular districts within the states mentioned above where the disease prevalence is higher and which have been targeted as priorities for elimination efforts.
What makes these regions susceptible to Kala azar?
Factors include the presence of the sandfly vector, poor housing conditions that facilitate sandfly breeding, and lack of awareness or access to medical treatment.
How does the regional climate affect Kala azar transmission?
The warm and humid climate of these regions provides an ideal breeding ground for the sandflies that transmit Kala azar.
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