Students in Patna Fall Ill During Filariasis Elimination Campaign

Several school students experienced health issues on **February 25, 2024**, during a campaign aimed at eliminating lymphatic filariasis in **Patna**, Bihar. The incident occurred in Ganpat Rai Tola, part of the Athmalgola locality, when students consumed **Albendazole**, a medication administered as part of the Mass Drug Administration (MDA) initiative.

Health department officials reported that the illness was linked to the side effects of the administered medication. The medical officer at Athmalgola Community Health Centre (CHC) confirmed that “several children fell ill at a primary school in Ganpat Rai Tola, where our MDA campaign was underway. They are now safe and have no complications.”

A Quick Response Team (QRT) and an ambulance were dispatched to the school promptly. All affected children, who exhibited mild symptoms, were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment, ensuring their swift recovery.

Understanding the MDA Initiative

The MDA programme has been operational for several days across Bihar without previous incidents. The health official emphasized that the initiative aims to combat filariasis, a parasitic infection caused by thread-like nematodes primarily transmitted through infected mosquito bites.

The medical officer reassured that similar campaigns are being conducted throughout the state, stating, “The medicine is being administered all across Bihar.” Continuous monitoring of the students’ health following the incident is expected to alleviate concerns and ensure the safety of participants in the campaign.

Efforts to eliminate filariasis are critical, given that it poses significant health risks and can lead to severe complications if left untreated. The health department remains committed to the successful implementation of the MDA programme and the health of the community.