Abstract
AbstractLymphatic filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, is a debilitating parasitic disease that has been prevalent in various parts of the world, including China and Ghana. This paper explores the historical context of lymphatic filariasis in Ghana and China, as well as the fights towards eliminating the disease in both countries. The review also covered the strategies employed by the Chinese government to eliminate lymphatic filariasis and the key lessons that Ghana can learn from China's success. The discussion highlights the importance of political commitment, multisectoral collaboration, tailoring control strategies to local contexts, adopting a comprehensive approach, and emphasising health education and community mobilisation. By adopting these lessons and fostering a robust national strategy, engaging diverse stakeholders, and ensuring active community involvement, Ghana can work towards achieving lymphatic filariasis elimination, improving public health, and fostering sustainable development.
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Reference42 articles.
1. de Souza DK, Koudou B, Kelly-Hope LA, Wilson MD, Bockarie MJ, Boakye DA. Diversity and transmission competence in lymphatic filariasis vectors in West Africa, and the implications for accelerated elimination of Anopheles-transmitted filariasis. Parasit Vectors. 2012;5:1–6.
2. WHO. Monitoring and Epidemiological Assessment of Mass Drug Administration in the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis: A Manual for National Elimination Programmes. World Heal Organ. 2011;1–100.
3. Fang Y, Zhang Y. Lessons from lymphatic filariasis elimination and the challenges of post-elimination surveillance in China. Infect Dis Poverty. 2019;8(1):1–10.
4. Lupenza E, Gasarasi DB, Minzi OM. Lymphatic filariasis, infection status in Culex quinquefasciatus and Anopheles species after six rounds of mass drug administration in Masasi District, Tanzania. Infect Dis Poverty. 2021;10(1):1–11. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40249-021-00808-5.
5. Yokoly FN, Zahouli JBZ, Méite A, Opoku M, Kouassi BL, de Souza DK, et al. Low transmission of Wuchereria bancrofti in cross-border districts of Côte d’Ivoire: a great step towards lymphatic filariasis elimination in West Africa. PLoS ONE. 2020;15(4): e0231541.