Health Scare in Bihar Schools After Anti-Filarial Drug Administration
A concerning health incident unfolded in Bihar on Wednesday as approximately 40 children across two separate government schools fell ill after being administered anti-filarial medication. The episode has raised questions about the ongoing mass drug administration campaign against filariasis in the state.
Incident in Patna's Barh Block
In the Barh block of Patna district, nearly 30 children from a government school located in the Rampur diara area complained of severe stomach aches shortly after receiving the anti-filarial drug. The affected students were promptly transported to the primary health centre in Athmalgola for medical evaluation and treatment.
Dr. Yogendra Prasad Mandal, the Patna civil surgeon, addressed the situation, stating, "The children were closely monitored at the health centre. They complained of stomach ache, which could potentially be a gastroenteritis problem. All of them were stable and subsequently sent back to their homes." Dr. Mandal emphasized that there was no cause for panic, noting that such adverse reactions can occasionally occur during large-scale drug administration programs.
Parallel Case in Jamui District
Simultaneously, similar distressing reports emerged from the Khaira block in Jamui district, where approximately 10 children from another government school experienced adverse symptoms. These students reported vomiting, headaches, and fever after consuming the same anti-filarial medication, highlighting a pattern of side effects across different locations.
Context of the Mass Drug Administration Campaign
The Bihar health department initiated an ambitious mass drug administration campaign against filariasis on February 10th, with the program scheduled to continue until February 28th. This extensive public health initiative aims to cover a staggering 8.97 crore people across the state, representing one of the largest preventive healthcare efforts in the region.
Key aspects of the campaign include:
- Targeted administration of anti-filarial drugs to prevent lymphatic filariasis
- Widespread coverage across multiple districts and communities
- Focus on school-based administration to reach vulnerable populations
- Monitoring systems to track adverse reactions and effectiveness
While health officials maintain that such side effects are not uncommon during mass medication drives, the incidents have understandably caused concern among parents and local communities. The health department continues to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that all affected children receive appropriate follow-up care while maintaining the momentum of this crucial public health campaign.
