Efforts to eliminate river blindness in Kaduna State have received renewed momentum with the flag-off of the mass administration of medicine for the prevention of onchocerciasis.
The intervention, supported by Sightsavers in collaboration with the Kaduna State Government, is currently underway in Kaduna South.
Onchocerciasis, commonly known as river blindness, remains one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in many rural communities.
To curb the spread of the disease, the Kaduna State Government, with support from Sightsavers, has commenced a mass administration of medicine programme aimed at protecting residents and preserving sight across affected communities.
Health officials say the initiative is a critical public health intervention designed to break the transmission cycle of the disease while safeguarding vulnerable populations.
MUST READ: Membership Drive: Cross River ADC Stresses Orderly Process
Representative of Sightsavers, Anita Gwom, called on community members to take ownership of the programme by participating actively and ensuring the medicines reach the intended beneficiaries.
She emphasised that the drugs are provided free of charge and should not be sold or found in medicine stores.
The Director of Public Health in Kaduna State said the mass administration of medicine remains a proven strategy for controlling river blindness and preventing avoidable visual impairment.
He urged residents of Kaduna South to cooperate with health workers to ensure the success of the exercise.
Health authorities say sustained community participation and consistent drug administration are key to reducing the burden of river blindness and moving closer to eliminating the disease in affected communities.
(Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie)
