WHO INTRODUCES NEW FRAMEWORK TO COMBAT KALA-AZAR IN EASTERN AFRICA

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The World Health Organization (WHO) launched a comprehensive framework on June 12, aimed at eradicating visceral leishmaniasis (VL), commonly known as kala-azar, in eastern Africa.

EXPLANATION:

  • This initiative is in response to the rising threat posed by the parasitic infection, which has become a significant public health concern in the region.

Kala-azar

  • Kala-azar, or visceral leishmaniasis, is a severe parasitic disease characterized by fever, weight loss, and enlargement of the spleen and liver.
  • There are 3 main forms of leishmaniases: visceral (the most serious form because it is almost always fatal without treatment), cutaneous (the most common, usually causing skin ulcers), and mucocutaneous (affecting mouth, nose and throat).
  • Leishmaniasis is caused by protozoan parasites which are transmitted by the bite of infected female phlebotomine sandflies.
  • The disease affects some of the world’s poorest people and is associated with malnutrition, population displacement, poor housing, a weak immune system and lack of financial resources.
  • An estimated 700 000 to 1 million new cases occur annually.
  • Only a small fraction of those infected by parasites causing leishmaniasis will eventually develop the disease.
  • It can be fatal if not treated promptly.
  • The disease is transmitted through the bite of infected female sandflies and is endemic in 80 countries worldwide.
  • In 2022, eastern Africa accounted for 73% of the global VL caseload, with 50% of these cases occurring in children under the age of 15.
  • Historically, between 2004 and 2008, Bangladesh, India, and Nepal were responsible for 70% of the global VL cases.
  • However, by October 2023, WHO declared Bangladesh as the first country to eradicate VL, thanks to rigorous eradication programs initiated in 2005.
  • The success in Asia was attributed to a regional strategic framework, accelerated elimination programs, strong political commitment, and sustained stakeholder support.

New Framework for Eastern Africa

  • The new WHO framework for eastern Africa aims to replicate the success achieved in Asia.
  • This initiative targets nine countries in the region that account for three-fourths of the global incidence of kala-azar.
  • The framework offers a comprehensive approach for these countries to implement strategies, monitor progress, identify gaps, and build capacity to combat the disease.

Key Strategies for VL Elimination

  • The WHO framework outlines five main strategies to guide VL elimination efforts:
    • Early Diagnosis and Treatment: Ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment to reduce mortality and morbidity associated with the disease.
    • Integrated Vector Management: Controlling the population of sandflies to prevent the spread of the disease.
    • Effective Surveillance: Implementing robust surveillance systems to monitor and track the incidence and spread of VL.
    • Advocacy, Social Mobilization, and Partnership-Building: Engaging communities, stakeholders, and policymakers to support elimination efforts.
    • Implementation and Operational Research: Conducting research to improve strategies and address challenges in the eradication process.

Implementation and Regional Targets

  • The framework also details a stepwise process for implementing the elimination phases, setting clear regional targets.
  • These targets include:
    • A 90% reduction in VL incidence in the eastern Africa sub-region to fewer than 1,500 cases per year by 2030.
    • Detection and treatment of 90% of VL cases within 30 days of the onset of symptoms by 2030.
    • A 100% reduction in VL deaths among children by 2030.

Significance and Expected Outcomes

  • The WHO framework is expected to provide crucial direction to the affected countries in eastern Africa.
  • It aims to generate momentum and ensure coordinated efforts towards the elimination of VL.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/health/who-comes-up-with-new-framework-to-combat-kala-azar-in-eastern-africa-96648

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