About

• Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, is a neglected tropical disease. 
• It is a parasitic disease caused by microscopic, thread-like worms. The adult worms only live in the human lymph system. The lymph system maintains the body’s fluid balance and fights infections. 
• Lymphatic filariasis is spread from person to person by Culex mosquitoes. 
• People with the disease can suffer from lymphedema and elephantiasis and in men, swelling of the scrotum, called hydrocele. 
• Lymphatic filariasis is a leading cause of permanent disability worldwide. 
• These patients are not only physically disabled, but suffer mental, social and financial losses contributing to stigma and poverty.
• Lymphatic filariasis can be eliminated by stopping the spread of infection through preventive chemotherapy with safe medicine combinations repeated annually.