Photo caption: Dr Thungchanbemo Ezung with participants during the observance of World Malaria Day at the CMO Office, Wokha, on April 25. (Photo Courtesy: CMO Wokha)
Wokha, April 26 (MExN): World Malaria Day was observed in Wokha on April 25 with a programme organised by the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) Wokha at the Conference Hall of the Chief Medical Officer’s Office under the theme “Drive to End Malaria: Now We Can, Now We Must.”
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Thungchanbemo Ezung, Chief Medical Officer, Wokha, emphasised the need to scale up malaria surveillance and close gaps in real-time reporting. He said surveillance activities must reach remote areas so that positive cases are detected early and treated promptly.
Dr Ezung also highlighted the importance of strengthening field-level systems and community engagement.
A report on the malaria scenario and analysis of Wokha district was presented by Wezolo Medo, Consultant, NCVBDC Wokha. The report outlined achievements so far, current challenges and a strategic path forward towards district elimination. He informed that NCVBDC staff had visited health centres in the district from April 20 to 23 as part of monitoring and supervision activities.
Dr Atheo Murry, senior private practitioner from Wokha town, shared his practical experiences and words of encouragement for NCVBDC staff, reinforcing the need for public-private collaboration and sustained commitment to achieve elimination goals.
Malaria Technical Supervisor Eyingbemo Lotha spoke on interventions and challenges faced at block level, citing logistics, access and reporting constraints.
A practical demonstration of Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) and blood slide microscopy was conducted by laboratory technicians, showcasing correct procedures, quality control and interpretation for participants. Following the programme, malaria screening for all participants was also carried out by NCVBDC staff.
