Household Survey to Evaluate the Coverage of Mass Drug Administration for the Lymphatic Filariasis in District Umaria, Madhya Pradesh, India in Year 2023

Abstract

Background: In 2023, the Umaria district in Madhya Pradesh, India, was identified as an endemic district for Lymphatic Filariasis (LF). The National Programme for Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis conducted annual mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns in February to eliminate LF by 2027. Objective: This study aimed to estimate the coverage and compliance rate of MDA in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, India, in 2023. Methodology: A cluster sampling method was used for evaluation. The district was divided into three implementation units, corresponding to its three administrative blocks. Four clusters were selected within each unit, consisting of one urban and three rural clusters. Thirty households were randomly selected as respondents from each cluster. Data was collected in May 2023 using a standardized coverage evaluation form designed by the World Health Organization. Result: Among the 360 households surveyed, information on 1606 beneficiaries was obtained. MDA was offered to 94% of the total population, with a coverage and compliance rate of 98.5% among the eligible population. The most common reasons for not consuming the drugs were "not present at house during the campaign" and "fear of drugs." Less than one percent of beneficiaries reported any side effects following the consumption of MDA. Conclusion & Implication: The coverage and compliance of MDA in the district appear to be optimal. The National Programme for Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis should now consider conducting Transmission Assessment Surveys to determine the endemicity of districts that have reached the critical threshold of LF infection. Additionally, establishing adequate sentinel sites, organizing night blood examination camps in endemic areas, and improving Information Education Communication activities may aid in achieving LF elimination by 2027.