Rivers State joined the global community in commemorating World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Day yesterday, reaffirming its commitment to the elimination and control of NTDs. The event brought together government officials, health professionals, community leaders, and partner organizations to raise awareness about the burden of NTDs and advocate for sustained efforts to combat these diseases.

Activities and Key Highlights

The celebration featured a series of activities aimed at increasing public understanding of NTDs and promoting preventive measures. Key highlights included:

·Community Sensitization Campaigns: Health workers and volunteers engaged communities through educational programs on the prevention and treatment of NTDs such as lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, and soil-transmitted helminths.

·       Free Screening and Treatment Services: Medical teams provided free screenings and treatment for common NTDs, ensuring that affected individuals received necessary healthcare support.

·       Stakeholder Engagement: Representatives from the State Ministry of Health, local government authorities, and development partners discussed ongoing interventions, progress made, and strategies to strengthen NTD control efforts.

·       School Health Programs: Special sessions were conducted in schools to educate children on hygiene practices that prevent the spread of NTDs, emphasizing the importance of clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives.

Commitment to NTD Elimination

Speaking at the event, the Rivers State Commissioner for Health reiterated the government’s dedication to scaling up interventions aimed at reducing the prevalence of NTDs. He emphasized the need for continuous collaboration between government agencies, health institutions, and international partners to achieve the goal of eliminating NTDs as a public health threat.

Call to Action

As Rivers State marks World NTD Day, stakeholders call for increased funding, community involvement, and sustained advocacy to accelerate progress in NTD elimination. The event served as a reminder that collective action is essential in addressing the challenges posed by these diseases and improving the overall health and well-being of affected communities.

With strengthened efforts, enhanced partnerships, and continued awareness, Rivers State moves closer to a future free of Neglected Tropical Diseases.