West New Britain Province in Papua New Guinea is conducting Social Mobilization as part of the World Health Organizations (WHO) Global Programme to Eliminate Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD’s).
The Social Mobilization activity will raise awareness on NTD’s like Lymphatic Filariasis, Soil Transmitted Helminths, Yaws, Scabies, and Trachoma. And will prepare the province for a Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign that will target these Neglected Tropical Diseases.
The Mass Drug Administration campaign will see the distribution of medicinal drugs to 37 health facilities in two (2) districts. Administering also at schools for school-aged children, at community booths for all age groups, at workplaces, and from door-to-door, using the directly observed treatment (DOT) approach.
WHO is working closely with the WNB Provincial Health Authority, local communities, the National Department of Health (NDOH), and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to reach over 380 thousand people in West New Britain Province.
Lymphatic Filariasis is caused by parasitic worms transmitted by mosquitoes which often lead to elephantiasis and hydrocele. This causes swelling in the arms, legs, breasts, or genitals. The swelling being painful, may also lead to permanent disfigurement and cause social stigma and poverty.
Soil Transmitted Helminths are parasitic intestinal worms which cause anemia and poor cognitive functions in children. Yaws is caused by bacteria and affects skin and bones, and is spread through close contact. And Scabies is a skin disease caused by parasites living on the skin.
To eliminate these preventable NTD’s, PNG must successfully implement Mass Drug Administration (MDA) and Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP). Social mobilization in WNBP is the first step to ensuring this.
While Neglected Tropical Diseases can be prevented through Mass Drug Administration, communities in West New Britain are also encouraged to prioritize safe water and sanitation, and practice good hygiene.
Mass Drug Administration for West New Britain province is expected to begin in the month of November, 2023.