A day-long symposium dedicated to combating lymphatic filariasis, a neglected tropical disease, has been inaugurated by India’s Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare. The central theme of the event was ‘United to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis.’ The Union Minister demonstrated further commitment to this cause by signing the ‘Call to Action to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis by 2021.’
Understanding Lymphatic Filariasis
Lymphatic filariasis, colloquially known as elephantiasis, is a condition that significantly affects the lymphatic system. It is renowned for causing an abnormal enlargement of body parts, potentially resulting in severe pain, prolonged disability, and social stigma.
This health disorder is vector-borne, caused by infection with certain nematodes or roundworms belonging to the Filariodidea family. Three types of worms are typically responsible for this disease. Wuchereria Bancrofti takes the lead, being responsible for almost 90% of the cases. Brugia Malayi and Brugia Timori are also known to cause the disease, although to a lesser extent.
The Indian Government’s Stride Against Lymphatic Filariasis
The Indian government has not been idle in the face of the threat posed by lymphatic filariasis. In 2018, it launched the Accelerated Plan for Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (APELF). This plan revolved around two main strategies: prevention and management.
For the prevention part, the efforts are geared towards Mass Drug Administration (MDA) employing a combination of two anti-filarial drugs – DEC and Albendazole. On the other hand, the management aspect focuses on providing Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP) services to patients grappling with the disease.
Moreover, the government is also geared up to expand the use of Triple Drug Therapy (IDA) in a phased approach from December 2019.
| Worm Type | Percentage of Cases |
|---|---|
| Wuchereria Bancrofti | 90% |
| Brugia Malayi | Remainder of cases |
| Brugia Timori | Fewer cases |
The Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF)
The World Health Organisation (WHO) initiated its Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) in 2000. The roadmap for neglected tropical diseases, which was reconfirmed by the WHO in 2012, set the target date for achieving elimination of the disease by 2020.
The GPELF’s main objective is to ensure that every individual with chronic manifestations of lymphatic filariasis can access a minimum package of care, regardless of where the disease is present. The goal is to alleviate suffering and promote an improvement in their quality of life.