Godrej Consumer Products Limited (GCPL), along with Centre for Health research and Innovation (CHRI-PATH) and Family Health India (FH India) has entered into agreement with the Directorate of Health Services, Government of Maharashtra to support the government in malaria elimination, and dengue, chikungunya prevention and control programme.
Malaria and other vector borne diseases are a major public health issue in Maharashtra which is a Category 2 state with most districts with an Annual Parasite Index (API) of less than 1 case per 1,000 population at risk but few districts that report an API of 1 or above.
One such district is the eastern forest district of Gadchiroli with a high tribal population. The programme’s primary focus is to eliminate malaria, with particular attention given to Gadchiroli district. Additionally, the programme aims to control the rapid increase in dengue and chikungunya cases, focusing on the Thane-Palghar district.
To achieve these goals, the support programme will appoint three state-level experts and 24 district-level human resources. These individuals will work closely with the government to strengthen human and entomological surveillance, enhance case reporting, and improve the clinical management of these diseases.
Dr Sarnikar (Joint Director Health) from Public Health Department of Maharashtra shared, “Malaria, Dengue and other vector borne diseases are a big concern in Maharashtra, especially districts like Gadchoroli, Chandrapur and Thane-Palghar. Climate change is causing an increase in cases even in cold regions. Dengue variants can be deadly and we need to invest in necessary technology and prevention methods. We should learn from COVID-19 and be equipped and prepared to any vector-borne disease outbreaks.”
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