Dist-level task force meeting on national health programmes

A district-level task force meeting on the National TB Elimination Programme, National Malaria Elimination Programme, National Deworming Day and School Health and Wellness Programme under Ayushman Bharat was held at Chamba on Tuesday. Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repswal presided over the meeting.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Medical Officer Dr Bipen Thakur said under the National TB Elimination Programme, India has successfully reduced the TB mortality rate from 32 in 2015 to 23 in 2023. In Chamba, 28 panchayats have been declared TB-free under the 100-day TB campaign, with 82,469 people screened from a total of 117,852 vulnerable population.

About Malaria, Dr. Thakur said no positive case has been reported in the district for the past five years. However, he directed all hospitals to strictly follow departmental guidelines by preparing both active and passive slides to ensure malaria is eradicated from the root.

Speaking about the upcoming National Deworming Day, the Chief Medical Officer said Albendazole tablets will be administered on August 21 across Anganwadis, government schools, private schools, vocational centers, ITIs and colleges with students below 19 years of age.

Dr Thakur also made a presentation on the School Health and Wellness Programme under Ayushman Bharat. The Deputy Commissioner lauded the Health Department, led by the CMO, for its commendable work despite challenges and limited human resources.

He congratulated all officials and staff and directed district-level officers of all departments to extend full cooperation to ensure the success of these national health programmes.