New Delhi, India

As India braces for the onset of monsoon, it faces another significant health challenge — lymphatic filariasis. In the fluctuating temperatures and the subtropical regions of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and other neighbouring states, this debilitating disease quietly emerges as a critical public health concern.

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) or Elephantiasis is a disease caused by parasitic worms transmitted through mosquito bites. It affects millions in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.

Dr N K Ganguly, Former Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), told WION, "Vector-borne diseases like lymphatic filariasis are intricately linked with the monsoon season and fluctuating temperatures. Individuals in subtropical and tropical regions may contract the disease and end up suffering from chronic conditions such as lymphatic vessel obstruction, leading to fluid accumulation in the limbs (lymphoedema), hydrocele (swelling of the scrotum), chyluria (presence of lymphatic fluid in urine).”

The disease not only causes physical suffering but also significantly impacts livelihoods. Dr. Ganguly further noted, "Patients with lymphoedema often experience recurrent infections that can confine them to bed for days, impairing their ability to work and earn a living. This cycle of disability perpetuates poverty and hampers economic development."

India aims to eliminate lymphatic filariasis as a public health concern by 2027 through integrated approaches involving mass drug administration and effective vector control measures. As the country confronts the challenges posed by a shifting climate, urgent actions are necessary to safeguard the health and well-being of people residing in LF-endemic regions.

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Climate change exacerbates the spread of lymphatic filariasis by creating favourable conditions for disease vectors, such as mosquitoes. Rising temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns expand mosquito habitats and accelerate transmission cycles.

Dr. Bhupendra Tripathi, Deputy Director, Infectious Diseases and Vaccine Delivery, at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, told WION, "Prevention and vector control form the cornerstones of the Government of India’s enhanced strategy for LF elimination. The government's disease prevention strategy includes the annual Mass Drug Administration (MDA) of anti-filarial medicines to eligible populations, excluding pregnant women, children less than 2 years of age, and severely ill individuals, free of cost."

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Dr. Bhupendra added, "This is supported by consistent vector control activities throughout the year. Enhancing MDA coverage, ensuring treatment compliance and taking protective measures are pivotal to interrupting disease transmission and alleviating the health and socio-economic burden in impacted regions. Few endemic states will be undertaking the Mass Drug Administration round starting August 10, 2024. It is imperative that people participate wholeheartedly in these rounds and safeguard themselves and their communities."