Oyo records 142 cases of Elephantiasis, other neglected tropical diseases in one year

The Oyo State Government says 142 cases of Lymphatic Filariasis, also known as Elephantiasis, has been recorded in the state in the last one year.

Executive Secretary of Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Muideen Babatunde Olatunji, disclosed this at a press conference to mark the 2024 World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Day.

Our correspondent reports that the theme of this year’s event is ‘Unite to Act Towards Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases’.

Olatunji, while speaking on efforts made by the state government to combat Elephantiasis and other neglected tropical diseases, noted that the affected persons have been treated.

He added that 10 surgical interventions have been carried out while no fewer than 1.6 million school children have been vaccinated tp prevent cases of neglected tropical diseases in the state.

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He said that record have shown that four NTDs are endemic in the state.

The diseases according to him are Soil Transmitted Helminths, Schistosomiasis, Lymphatic filariasis and Onchocerciasis.

He said, “They are called neglected tropical diseases because only few people pay attention to them. They are not caused by witches, they can be managed.

“We have recorded 142 cases of Lymphatic filariasis also known as Elephantiasis, 9 cases of Onchocerciasis, we have done 10 surgical intervention. Mass drug have been provided for 1.6 million school across the state.

“According to a survey conducted by FMOH, four of these NTDs are endemic in the state – Soil Transmitted Helminths, Schistosomiasis, Lymphatic filariasis and Onchocerciasis.

“The diseases are distributed across the state as follows: 28 LGAs are Oncho endemic, 10 are FL endemic, 30 are SCH endemic and 33 are STH endemic. These NTDs are treated with safe and effective drugs that are distributed once each year.”