Tanzania’s Mass Drug Administration Campaign Targets Neglected Tropical Diseases
In Tanzania, a nationwide campaign is underway to combat neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) such as schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminths (STH). The Mass Drug Administration (MDA) program, led by the Ministry of Health, aims to treat millions of people, particularly children, who are at risk of these parasitic infections. Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia, and STH are major public health concerns in sub-Saharan Africa, causing serious illness, long-term complications, and a lower quality of life.
The MDA program involves administering medication to children in schools, with the goal of reducing the prevalence of these diseases. In the Kibaha District, where Vikuruti Primary School is located, children are given praziquantel and albendazole, which are used to treat schistosomiasis and STH. The dosage is determined by the child’s height, ensuring that each child receives the right amount of medication. This approach has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of side effects and improving treatment outcomes.
According to Dr. Antony Golinja, from Tanzania’s National Neglected Tropical Diseases Control Program (NTDCP), the MDA program is a critical component of the country’s efforts to control NTDs. “The program is conducted in an orderly way, usually within one to two hours after the children have had something to eat,” he explained. “After treatment, we carry out surveys to assess coverage and measure the disease burden.” The program has been successful in reducing the prevalence of NTDs in Tanzania, with many districts showing significant declines in infection rates.
School-based preventive chemotherapy programs, such as MDA, are an effective way to target high-risk populations, particularly children. Children are vulnerable to NTDs due to their frequent contact with contaminated water during bathing, play, and domestic chores. Chronic infections can result from these exposures, impairing growth, cognitive development, and school performance. By treating children in schools, the MDA program helps to reduce the burden of NTDs and improve health outcomes.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a main control strategy of widespread preventive treatment using praziquantel, often paired with albendazole to deworm against STH. Tanzania’s NTDCP is working with local and international partners to provide mass drug administration, improve water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure, and raise community awareness. By 2030, the WHO aims to eradicate schistosomiasis and STH, aligned with its goal to eliminate NTDs.
In Tanzania, the MDA program has been successful in reducing the prevalence of NTDs, with many communities showing significant declines in infection rates. The program has also helped to improve health outcomes, with children experiencing fewer illnesses and improved attendance and performance in school. As the country works towards the 2030 goal of eliminating NTDs, the MDA program will continue to play a critical role in controlling these diseases and improving the health and well-being of Tanzanians.
