Kala-azar

Current Context : India is on track to eliminate Kala-azar (visceral leishmaniasis) as a public health problem, maintaining an incidence rate of fewer than one case per 10,000 people in endemic areas.

• WHO Criteria: India has met the World Health Organization’s criteria for elimination by maintaining low incidence for two consecutive years​
• Government Initiatives: The National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) plays a key role in these efforts, using methods like indoor residual spraying and community engagement to reduce transmission.

ABOUT KALA-AZAR:

• Kala-azar, or visceral leishmaniasis, is caused by the Leishmania donovaniparasite.
• It is a slow-progressing, potentially fatal disease caused by a protozoan parasite, type of infection.
• Transmitted through the bite of infected female sandflies.
• Symptoms: Irregular fever, weight loss, enlarged spleen and liver, and severe anemia. Without treatment, it can be fatal.
• Treatment & Diagnosis: Diagnosis includes clinical evaluation and tests like the rK39 rapid diagnostic test. Treatment involves anti-parasitic medications​