H.E. the President of Nepal lends support to the Regional Technical Advisory Group for Kala-azar elimination

WHO/SEARO organized the fourth Regional Technical Advisory Committee (RTAG) for Kala-azar elimination meeting on 10-12 July 2011 at Kathmandu, Nepal. The meeting was attended by members of the RTAG and two scientists each from WHO HQ and TDR, Geneva. The WHO Nepal Country Office was also represented in this meeting. The RTAG members had the proud privilege of meeting His Excellency the President of Nepal Dr Ram Baran Yadav and spent approximately 45 minutes discussing key issues on Kala-azar Elimination. The President expressed keen interest and reiterated his government’s commitment to eliminate this dreaded disease.

The RTAG recommended phasing out Miltefosine (which requires a 28-day course and has low compliance) and replacing it with a single dose liposomal amphotericin B, which requires only one injection, is highly effective and safe, and is therefore likely to ensure 100% compliance . While endorsing the strategic framework of Kala-azar Elimination (2011 -2015), the group recommended renewing the MoU for Kala-azar Elimination signed in 2005.