Zamfara state government has lamented that 14 local government areas in the state are currently endemic to Lymphatic Filariasis disease (Elephantiasis) .
This was made known by the state Commissioner of Health, Alhaji Aliyu Abubakar MC during a press briefing to mark this year’s World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) day celebration, Monday.
The commissioner, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Alh. Aliyu Maikiwo Maradun, stated that six local governments of Bukkuyum, Anka, Maru, Bungudu, Tsafe and Zurmi had achieved interruptions of transmission for Onchocerciasis (River Blindness) treatment.
According to him, the achievement followed the interruptions carried out by the state government through the ministry in the six local government areas.
“As a result of quick response by the state government through the ministry, these six local governments no longer require annual treatment of elephantiasis disease,” he said.
He further pointed out that the trachoma endemic is under control in local governments of Bungudu, Kaura Namoda, Maradun, Tsafe and Zurmi hence no longer in need treatment.
He said the ministry will redouble efforts to ensure areas and communities affected with insecurity are reached for free treatment of neglected tropical diseases, which include Trachoma, River Blindness, Elephantiasis, Bilharzias and intestinal worms.
