Mectizan Donation Program Hits 5 Billion Doses Milestone
The Mectizan Donation Program (MDP) has reached a significant milestone - its 5 billionth dose of medication. Established in 1987, the program is the longest-running drug donation initiative for neglected tropical diseases.
Working with partners in 58 countries across Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and the Western Pacific, MDP aims to eradicate river blindness (onchocerciasis) and lymphatic filariasis (LF or elephantiasis). These debilitating illnesses affect millions of people worldwide.
The program relies on national efforts, where local organizations work with community-directed distributors to ensure everyone in endemic areas has access to treatment. Merck & Co., Inc.* donates Mectizan® to eligible countries where these diseases are prevalent.