DHAKA, Oct 31, 2023 (BSS) - The World Health Organization (WHO) has
recognized Bangladesh as the first country in the world for eliminating
'Kala-azar'.
 
The WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh today
handed over a recognition certificate of eliminating 'Kala-azar' to Health
Minister Zahid Maleque at the 76th regional conference held in Delhi, a press
release said.

WHO Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Union Minister of Health
and Family Welfare of India Mansukh Mandaviya and ministers and top officials
of 11 countries of South-East Asia, among others, were present at the
conference.

Maleque said, "Earlier Bangladesh got recognition as fylaria and polio-free
country from WHO... now Bangladesh got recognition as Kala-azar free country
from WHO."

"We are proud of getting Kala-azar free recognition... it is another
milestone achievement for Bangladesh," he added.