Lymphatic filariasis (also known as elephantiasis) is an extremely
debilitating, stigmatizing disease, caused by parasitic worms. It affects
men, woman and children. BUT... It is a very special disease – one of
only six infectious diseases now considered by the World Health Organization to be eradicable with current
available tools.
How is it spread?
The 4-12 cm long thread-like adult worms live in the body's lymph nodes
and lymph vessels, and female worms release millions of immature forms,
known as microfilariae, into the bloodstream. These can be picked up by
mosquito and transmitted to other people when the mosquito bites again.
How do people suffer?
The disease causes a wide range of clinical problems. Some are easy to
recognize. Yet many remain hidden from sight. Easily recognized:
Elephantiasis and lymphoedema – the grotesque swelling that can
accompany long-standing infection.
'Filarial fevers' caused by acute infections in damaged limbs or
genitals.
Hidden:
Visible, but covered up – genital damage (especially hydrocoele and
elephantiasis of the scrotum and penis in men, and elephantiasis of the
breast and vulva in women)
Damage to the lymph circulation system and to the kidneys in all
infected people – even those showing no outward signs of infection.