Elimination of lymphatic filariasis: Where do we stand so far?

Abstract

Lymphatic filariasis (LF), an asymptomatic, acute, and chronic condition in human beings, is the second most common vector-borne disease after malaria. According to the World Health Organization, there are 120 million LF cases detected in 81 tropical and subtropical countries, and one billion people are at risk. Therefore, the Global Program to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis was launched in 2000, with the primary objective of stopping LF transmission among all at-risk groups using mass drug administration (MDA), managing morbidities, and preventing LF-related impairments using a minimum treatment package. Additionally, other programs such as epidemiological assessment including National Filaria Control Program and World Health Organization recommended routine and pre-MDA microfilaremia surveys also implemented to stop the LF transmission. The routine filaria surveys were also carried out in around 2 000-4 000 individuals/month throughout the year whereas pre-MDA surveys were also conducted every year in approximately 4 000 individuals in four fixed and four random sites. Furthermore, the Transmission Assessment Survey was also conducted to check the risk of LF among primary school children. Moreover, potential diagnostic methods, systematic surveillance regimes, the Direct Network Report system, and regular trainings and awareness may be also effective in preventing the recurrence of LF. Hence, this review emphasizes the potential advocacy tools and various strategies as well as procedures for monitoring, which could be impactful in eliminating LF.