Deoghar: A one-day workshop focusing on the diagnosis and management of Kala-azar (Visceral Leishmaniasis) and PKDL (Post-Kala-azar Dermal Leishmaniasis) was successfully organized at AIIMS Deoghar, following directions from the State Program Officer for Vector-Borne Disease Control (VBD), Jharkhand.
The workshop aimed at enhancing the clinical skills of healthcare professionals, bringing together medical officers and health workers from districts such as Dumka, Godda, Pakur, Sahibganj, Deoghar, and Jamtara. Doctors from AIIMS Deoghar and PJMCH also took part, with a strong emphasis on managing complex Kala-azar cases effectively.
The program began with a ceremonial lamp lighting. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Birendra Kumar Singh highlighted that Jharkhand had achieved its Kala-azar elimination target in 2023. He stressed that sustaining this milestone requires continuous, coordinated efforts and technical expertise at all levels.
Key experts shared valuable insights during the session. Dr. Nitin M. Gangane underscored the role of medical institutions not only in treatment but also in research and training. Dr. Krishna Pandey emphasized the importance of accurate diagnosis and adherence to treatment protocols, especially in complicated and recurring cases.
Joining virtually, Dr. Mitali Chatterjee pointed out that timely detection and treatment of PKDL are crucial for complete disease elimination. Meanwhile, Dr. Roshan Topno highlighted the growing role of advanced technologies like qPCR in enabling faster and more precise diagnosis.
The workshop witnessed participation from over 60 attendees, including state and district VBD officials, representatives from the World Health Organization, Piramal Swasthya, Global Health Strategies, and frontline healthcare workers.
In conclusion, the State Program Officer reiterated that such capacity-building initiatives are essential to strengthen grassroots-level healthcare delivery and ensure that Jharkhand continues to remain free from Kala-azar.