Assessment of Mass Drug Administration its gaps and challenges in Tikamgarh District of Madhya Pradesh

Abstract

Introduction: Lymphatic Filariasis is endemic in India, thus annual mass drug administration (MDA) with
diethylcarbamazine (DEC) and albendazole is done. Continued administration for 4-6 years with >65%
coverage will interrupt the transmission of filariasis. This study aims to find out the reasons of noncompliance
and the operational issues in MDA. Objectives: [1] To review the coverage and compliance of DEC +
albendazole [2] To assess the implementation of MDA and find out the gaps and challenges. Methodology:

Four clusters, one urban and 3 from rural, were selected by multistage random sampling. From 4 blocks
selected, 1 urban ward and 3 PHC were selected, 1 village from each PHC was surveyed for 30 households.
Results: 785 people were surveyed in 120 households from 4 blocks, 96.2% (754) were eligible population.
75% (567) were above 15 years, 19% (141) were 5-14 years of age and 6% (46) were 2-4 years of age. 91.4%
(689) people received tablets during the MDA, 74.5% (513) ingested the tablets. 33.1% (228) ingested in the
presence of drug sewak and 70.7% (487) after food. Conclusion: Coverage of consumption far below the
reported coverage of the district. Lack of awareness and poor counselling and IEC were found to be major
reasons for lack of compliance.