India’s Robust Strategy Against Lymphatic Filariasis [Video]

India is making significant strides in the fight against lymphatic filariasis (LF), a debilitating disease commonly known as elephantiasis. The disease, transmitted by the bite of a Culex mosquito that breeds in dirty or polluted water, is one of the world’s leading causes of long-term disability. While not fatal, it significantly impairs quality of life, leading to severe physical debility and imposing substantial social and economic burdens on affected individuals, their families, and entire communities.

The Indian government has taken extensive measures to combat and control the disease, which is endemic to the country. A key strategy has been the implementation of a mass drug administration (MDA) campaign, launched nationwide in 2004. The campaign, aimed at controlling and eliminating neglected tropical diseases, achieved a remarkable 82.5 per cent coverage in 2023. It involves a door-to-door administration of preventive medications in endemic areas.

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a complex disease that has multifaceted social, …