National campaign ends but lymphatic filariasis treatment still available

By Elizabeth Ah-Hi 30 August 2018, 12:00AM

The national campaign to eliminate lymphatic filariasis wrapped up last Friday but those who did not receive the treatment have until September 7 to access the cure.

This is according to the C.E.O. of the Ministry of Health, Leausa Dr. Take Naseri, who sent out a statement thanking the public for their help in making the national campaign a success.

While the national campaign was swift and successful, there are still people who have not received the treatment and Leausa said it’s vital for everyone in Samoa to take these pills in order to eliminate the disease. 

Access to the treatment is available in Motootua, Tausivi and also the Ministry of Health reception.

Samoa Observer contacted Dr. Robert Thomsen at the Ministry of Health to ask if employers were informed about organising treatment for their employees and he replied that it is at the discretion of the companies and that a lot of people preferred to take the treatment in their homes because of the side effects, which require rest. 

According to Dr. Thomsen, it is recommended post-treatment that the individual rest for six hours and refrain from driving as people react differently ranging from mild to extreme. It is for these reasons employers are reluctant to have the treatment administered at the workplace. 

So far, the numbers have not been tallied for Upolu, but the preliminary tally for those treated in Savaii is close to 80 percent. Dr. Thomsen hopes to have the final tally by the beginning of next week.

For more information please contact Dr. Robert Thomsen 68104 or Siatua 68151 or the Ministry of Health 68100.

By Elizabeth Ah-Hi 30 August 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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