The Union Health Minister recently launched the second phase of the Annual Nationwide Mass Drug Administration (MDA) initiative for Lymphatic Filariasis in India. The country aims to wipe out Lymphatic Filariasis by 2027, three years ahead of the global target, employing a mission-driven strategy.
Understanding Lymphatic Filariasis
Lymphatic filariasis, often referred to as elephantiasis, is a neglected tropical disease. It is caused by a parasitic infection transmitted via mosquito bites and affects millions of people in tropical and subtropical areas around the world.
Causes and Transmission of Lymphatic Filariasis
The disease is caused by infection with parasites known as nematodes (roundworms) from the Filariodidea family. There are three types of these thread-like worms: Wuchereria bancrofti (associated with 90% of the cases), Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori, both of which contribute to the remaining cases.
Symptoms of Lymphatic Filariasis
Lymphatic filariasis can present itself in asymptomatic, acute, and chronic conditions. Chronic conditions can result in lymphoedema (tissue swelling) or elephantiasis (thickening of skin/tissue) of the limbs and hydrocele (scrotal swelling).
Treatment Methods
The World Health Organization (WHO) endorses a three-drug treatment regimen to expedite the global eradication of lymphatic filariasis. This treatment, known as IDA, consists of ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine citrate, and albendazole. These drugs are administered for two consecutive years.
Global Impact and Preventative Measures
Over 882 million people in 44 countries are at risk of lymphatic filariasis and require preventive chemotherapy. These preventive measures involve mass drug administration (MDA) to the at-risk population using a combination of safe medications. Since 2000, over 9 billion treatments have been administered to halt the spread of infection.
Progress and Achievements
Successful MDA programs have managed to reduce transmission and the prevalence of infection. 740 million people no longer require preventive chemotherapy. As of 2018, the number of infected individuals dropped to 51 million, which marks a significant 74% reduction since the inception of global eradication efforts.
Vector Control and WHO’s Strategy
In addition to preventive chemotherapy, mosquito control techniques like insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying are used. The WHO launched the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) in 2000 with the mission to eradicate the disease.
India’s Fight Against Lymphatic Filariasis
India’s MDA campaigns distribute preventive medicines in areas where the disease is endemic. The second phase of the MDA initiative targets 81 districts in nine endemic states for targeted intervention. Collaboration with various stakeholders, sectors, and NGOs enhances the initiative’s impact. State-central collaborations improve healthcare, surveillance, prevention, and treatment programs. Encouraging medication consumption under the supervision of healthcare workers fosters adherence to the prescribed treatment.
