Article:
The Maharashtra government has recently launched a drug administration initiative for the eradication of Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) after the second wave of Covid-19. This marks Maharashtra as the first state in India to resume the administration of drugs under this program.
Understanding Lymphatic Filariasis
Lymphatic Filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, is a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD). It holds the unfortunate rank as the second most disabling disease after mental health problems. This disease impinges on the lymphatic system, leading to the abnormal enlargement of body parts. This results in pain, severe disability and social stigma. The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining the fluid balance in the body and is an essential element of the body’s immune defense system.
Lymphatic Filariasis is a vector-borne disease that arises from infection with nematode parasites (roundworms) of the Filarioidea family. Three types of these thread-like filarial worms are responsible for causing this disease. Wuchereria Bancrofti accounts for 90% of the cases, Brugia Malayi causes most of the remaining cases, and Brugia Timori is less commonly found to cause the disease.
Drug Treatment for Lymphatic Filariasis
The World Health Organization (WHO) promotes three drug treatments to expedite the global elimination of LF. The treatment known as IDA combines ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine citrate, and albendazole. The plan is to administer these drugs for two consecutive years. As the adult worm’s life is usually only around four years, the worm would naturally die without causing any harm to the person.
Lymphatic Filariasis in India
India faces a serious threat from Lymphatic Filariasis with an estimated 650 million Indians across 21 states and union territories at risk. The country accounts for over 40% of worldwide cases. In response, the government introduced the Accelerated Plan for Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (APELF) in 2018, and later rolled out the IDA treatment (triple drug therapy) in a phased manner.
Global Initiatives Against Lymphatic Filariasis
The WHO has launched its New Roadmap for 2021–2030 which aims to prevent, control, eliminate and eradicate 20 diseases, classified as neglected tropical diseases, by 2030. In 2000, the WHO established the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) which aimed to halt transmission of infection through Mass Drug Administration (MDA) and to alleviate suffering among affected people through morbidity management and disability prevention (MMDP). However, the goal set by GPELF in 2000 to eliminate LF as a public health problem globally by 2020 was not achieved. Despite setbacks due to Covid-19, the WHO is committed to intensifying efforts to achieve this target by 2030.
(Source: TH)
