Lymphatic Filariasis (LF)

Why in News?

Union Health Minister launched National Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign for the elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) across 13 identified LF endemic states.

• Lymphatic filariasis (LF) – It is a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD).
• Caused by – Parasites classified as nematodes (roundworms) of the family Filariodidea.
• There are 3 types of these thread-like filarial worms
  • Wuchereria bancrofti, which is responsible for 90% of the cases
  • Brugia malayi, which causes most of the remainder of the cases
  • Brugia timori, which also causes the disease.
• Causes – It damages the lymphatic system and the kidneys and alter the body's immune system.
• It is commonly known as Elephantiasis or Hathi Paon.
• Symptoms – Asymptomatic, acute and chronic conditions which leads to,
  • Lymphoedema (tissue swelling) or elephantiasis (skin/tissue thickening) of limbs and hydrocele (scrotal swelling).

• Transmission – It enters to human body through the bites of infected mosquitos to humans.
• Transmitted by – Different types of mosquitoes,
  • Culex – Widespread across urban and semi-urban areas.
  • Anopheles – Found in rural areas.
  • Aedes – Endemic in the islands of Pacific.
• Risk factors – It is usually acquired in childhood.
• Treatment – It is possible to stop the spread of the infection through preventive chemotherapy.
• WHO recommendation – It recommended chemotherapy strategy for lymphatic filariasis elimination is Mass Drug Administration (MDA).

Mass Drug Administration (MDA) involves administering an annual dose of medicines to the entire at-risk population.

• 5-pronged strategy to ensure that Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) is eliminated much ahead of the Sustainable Development Goal of 2030.

References

1. PIB| Mass Drug Administration (MDA) Campaign for Lymphatic Filariasis (LF)
2. WHO| Lymphatic Filariasis (LF)