State Leprosy Officer Dr Ruokuohelie Rutsa and others during the district review meeting of the National Leprosy Eradication Programme in Phek on June 29. (Photo Courtesy: CMO Phek)
PHEK, JUNE 30 (MExN): A district review meeting of the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP) was held at the Chief Medical Officer's Conference Hall, Phek, on June 29 to assess preparedness for achieving leprosy elimination by 2027.
According to a press release from the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Phek, the meeting was led by State Leprosy Officer Dr Ruokuohelie Rutsa and officials from the Directorate of Health & Family Welfare.
Addressing the meeting, Dr Rutsa encouraged NLEP staff to intensify awareness on leprosy, stressing that the disease is curable through early diagnosis and proper treatment. He also called for ensuring universal access to free treatment to prevent further transmission.
NLEP official Hokito highlighted the year-long SPARSH leprosy awareness campaign and urged field staff to undertake active community screening for early case detection. Staff were also asked to spread awareness through Village Health Nutrition Days (VHNDs), public events and by engaging village councils, medical officers, Community Health Officers, nurses and ASHAs.
Programme Management Worker (PMW) Vizakielie Theunuo briefed participants on the newly introduced monthly reporting format and directed staff to submit reports to the State by the 6th of every month. District Extension Officer (DEO) Thejasetuo Paphino also presented on NIKUSTH, the digital registry used for patient tracking, contact tracing and treatment monitoring.
The meeting began with a welcome address by Dr Khriekuolie Liezietsu, DPO (RMNCHA+N), was chaired by PMW Vezoto Nienu and concluded with a vote of thanks by Senior PMS Dihutho.
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