Night Blood Survey for Filariasis Launched at Seven CHCs in Gumla

The Health Department, in collaboration with the Piramal Foundation, has launched an intensive night blood survey across seven Community Health Centres (CHCs) in Gumla district to assess filariasis infection and support efforts to make the district filariasis-free.

The campaign is being conducted under the directions of the Deputy Commissioner, with health workers, local representatives and community members participating in awareness and outreach activities. Public representatives have been inaugurating the survey in different areas, generating enthusiasm among villagers.

Under the campaign, one sentinel site and two random sites have been selected under each CHC for blood sample collection. The survey has begun in five blocks, while work in the remaining two blocks is scheduled to start in the coming days.

In Sisai block, health department officials and the Piramal Foundation team are carrying out supportive supervision in Nagpheni, Karoundi and other identified villages. The teams are monitoring the quality of blood sample collection, compliance with safety standards and proper data recording to ensure accurate testing.

Filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, is a parasitic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Since the parasites can be detected in peripheral blood more effectively at night, blood samples are collected during nighttime surveys. The findings help health authorities assess the extent of infection in the community and identify infected individuals for timely intervention.

The Health Department and district administration have appealed to residents to cooperate with health workers visiting their villages and get their blood samples tested to help make the campaign successful.