The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is leading a nationwide effort to eradicate filariasis by 2027, three years ahead of the global goal. This initiative, known as the Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign, is particularly targeting regions with a high prevalence of the disease such as Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Karnataka, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh.
Understanding Filariasis
Filariasis is a parasitic infection instigated by microscopic worms, or filariae. The disease is propagated through the bite of an infected mosquito and impacts millions globally, primarily in tropical and subtropical areas. There are three main types of these thread-like filarial worms: Wuchereria bancrofti, responsible for 90% of cases; Brugia malayi, causing most of the remaining cases; and Brugia timori, which also contributes to the disease.
The Causes and Transmission
Filariasis, specifically lymphatic filariasis, is caused by an infection from nematodes, a type of roundworm belonging to the family Filariodidea. The transmission route of these parasites is through the bites of infected mosquitoes, transforming this disease into a widespread risk in certain regions.
Symptoms of Filariasis
Lymphatic filariasis infection presents itself in three primary stages: asymptomatic, acute, and chronic. In its chronic form, filariasis can lead to lymphoedema or elephantiasis—conditions characterized by limb swelling and skin/tissue thickening—and hydrocele, which causes scrotal swelling.
Filariasis’ Treatment
In response to this global health issue, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended a three-drug treatment plan aimed at accelerating filariasis elimination. This regimen, known as IDA, comprises ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine citrate, and albendazole. These medications are intended to be administered for two consecutive years. As the adult worm’s lifespan is typically four years, this approach allows for the worm’s natural death, therefore preventing further harm to the infected individual.
Current Initiatives Against Filariasis
Several initiatives are underway to combat this debilitating disease. WHO has established a roadmap for the 2021–2030 Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis. Additionally, a National Symposium on Lymphatic Filariasis has been organized to foster dialogues and interventions. Furthermore, the National Health Mission has played a crucial part in bolstering these efforts. With a concerted approach, eradicating filariasis from India by 2027 is an achievable goal.