Valuable learning experience
Soil-transmitted Helminths
NTDs/STH, Choughare – a test project of Console Mission (Dilasha Aviyan)
During the cold winter of 2018 and 2019, 23 locals were trained to identify symptoms of STH, and after their training, they visited each household to check for reoccurring symptoms. Doesn’t this strengthen their capacity? Learning is important, but learning by doing is more effective.
The focus of the project was more on understanding the symptoms than on treating with medicine. The implementation of the overall activities is still ongoing. However, medicines were administered even though they were not budgeted for. Medicines were obtained by writing an application, and consequently, they were made available because they were necessary to address the issue. It is important to recognize that medicine is a sensitive matter and it should not be handled by those who are non-medical and unqualified, as there is a risk that the drugs may cause side effects. If someone who is allergic, or has liver or bone marrow disease, or is pregnant takes it, either knowingly or unknowingly, it could have negative effects.
In Ward No. 5 of Choughare, a trained individual responded to inquiries regarding symptoms on January 22, 2019.
Even if an individual or organization can obtain it for free, government permission is mandatory because it is a highly effective and prevalent medicine. Without a permit, customs will not allow it to pass through.
During my recent visit to a government health officer in Nepal, I learned that the distribution of free medicine for treating Lymphatic Filariasis, which was last administered in 2017 to all age groups, has been discontinued. However, children under the age of five were treated with Albendazole and Vitamin A in 2018.
In the pursuit of sustainability, local faith-based organizations must demonstrate proactivity. A team whose members are aware of their impact, yet face geographical and logistical challenges in meeting regularly, is essential. If such a team were to convene and conduct awareness programs, their efforts could gain recognition as they engage with each household, akin to the local government’s teachings. Should this team propose initiatives related to health awareness—acknowledging that while public health facilities exist, geographical barriers remain—a likelihood of financial support exists. Their agenda could gain traction, securing the necessary resources. Similarly, the School Health Peer Group might receive backing based on their proven impact. Schools, health posts, and village municipal offices are required to draft an annual plan, for which local assistance is indispensable. Proposals from both formal and informal local entities are considered, with funding contingent upon their credibility. However, plans that overlap or mirror government strategies may face rejection.
As long as an individual or organization does not deviate from the government’s plan, a project or program may proceed without formal approval. However, it is crucial to ensure transparency by maintaining accurate financial records, adhering to the budget, and documenting all provisions, whether they be services, medicines (which should be dispensed logically), or training that falls within the scope of the plan.
Government Office, Konjosom Gaupalika, Lalitpur, Nepal – 27/01/2019
The project focused on empowerment and concept demonstration has concluded. By the end of February 2019, an analysis encompassing activities, challenges, lessons learned, and a presentation on the forthcoming project for the VDCs within Konjosom Gaupalika will be organized. Console Mission will be present in the area, and activities in Choughare will proceed similarly to those of the Health Club. Additionally, their plans for the upcoming year include potentially assisting the Government Health Post with the distribution of vitamins and Albendazole. Should they acquire the medication, they plan to initiate adult dosing as conducted in 2018.
