MMDP Kits Distributed Among 25 Filariasis Patients in Revelganj; Emphasis on Self-Care and Disability Grading!
• Disability grading conducted for certification
• Patient Stakeholder Platforms (PSP) formed at 5 centers
• Symptoms of filariasis typically emerge between ages 5 to 15
• Women may develop breast-related symptoms
BKB Times
Saran (Bihar): In a commendable initiative aimed at improving the lives of patients suffering from filariasis—a neglected tropical disease—a special program was conducted in the Revelganj block. Under the guidance of Medical Officer-in-Charge Dr. Rakesh Kumar Gupta and with support from the Patient Stakeholder Platform, five filariasis patients underwent disability grading, a physical assessment necessary for obtaining disability certificates. These certificates enable long-term patients to access government schemes and social security benefits.
Distribution of MMDP Kits to 25 Patients:
The event, held at the Sitab Diara Primary Health Center, saw the distribution of Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP) kits to 25 patients suffering from lymphedema (elephantiasis). The kits included essential hygiene supplies such as antiseptic cream, clean towels, soap, mugs, buckets, and footwear—items crucial for maintaining hygiene and preventing infection in affected limbs. Patients were also educated on self-care techniques.
Dr. Rakesh Kumar emphasized that proper hygiene can significantly reduce swelling and prevent infections. Medication was also distributed to patients as part of the initiative. Block Health Manager Sanjeev Kumar Jaiswal, BCM Ritu Kumari, and VBDS Ghanshyam Yadav presented awareness videos on filariasis prevention and management.
Healthcare staff including GNM Sundaram Kumari, ANMs Indu Kumari and Nibha Kumari, along with local Anganwadi workers, ASHAs, Asha Sanginis, Jeevika community mobilizers, and other health personnel, actively participated in the event.
Symptoms Appear Between Ages 5–15:
Dr. Rakesh Kumar explained that the Culex mosquito transmits filariasis from infected to healthy individuals. However, symptoms often appear only between the ages of 5 and 15. Patients may develop swelling in limbs or genitals, and in women, changes in breast size can occur.
Formation of 5 Patient Stakeholder Platforms:
Patient Stakeholder Platforms (PSPs) were established at five Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in the Revelganj block. Krishna Singh, a representative of support organization CFAR, elaborated on the formation and purpose of PSPs in five common panchayats. PSPs serve as community platforms connecting patients directly to health services, facilitating easier access to medicines, certification, and government schemes.
Several patients have already benefited from PSPs—receiving treatment, disability certificates, and social security pensions—and are now on the path to living normal, dignified lives.
