Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Jan 30 : On World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Day, doctors in Kashmir highlighted severe health risks posed by NTDs including illness, disability and even death if left untreated.
Speaking to the news agency, doctors called for vector control measures such as insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor residual spraying to reduce the spread of vector-borne NTDs like malaria and dengue fever.
NTDs, including dengue, lymphatic filariasis, trachoma and leishmaniasis primarily affect poor and marginalised people. These diseases are often overlooked in global health priorities despite their devastating impact on millions.
Doctors said that poverty, poor hygiene and environmental factors play a crucial role in the transmission of NTDs.
Dr Javid from the Directorate of Health Services (DHSK) warned that untreated NTDs not only cause severe illness and disability but also lead to reduced productivity and income loss. “Those suffering from these diseases often face discrimination and social exclusion, which worsens their condition further,” he said.
To combat these diseases, Dr Javid called for mass drug administration for at-risk populations, vector control, improved sanitation and health education.
Dr Showkat, another doctor, advised people to spray insecticides in mosquito breeding areas, remove standing water, sleep under bed nets and seek early treatment to reduce infection risks and transmission. “Most NTDs are preventable and treatable, but millions continue to suffer due to a lack of awareness and access to medical care,” he said.
By promoting early diagnosis, treatment, and preventive measures, doctors said long-term disabilities and fatalities caused by these neglected diseases can be reduced. They urged the public to prioritise hygiene and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from infection.
