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The treatment strategy
consists of two main components:
1.
Treatment of the community to progressively reduce and ultimately
interrupt transmission
WHO recommends a 2-drug
regimen of DEC + albendazole mass drug
administration (MDA) to the entire endemic population once per year for 5-6
years.
 Transmission
can also be reduced by avoiding mosquito bites in endemic areas through
personal protective measures like repellents, use of bed nets and
insecticides.
Mosquito vectors often
breed in stagnating polluted water bodies, such as blocked drains and
sewers, and hence good sanitation is essential to reduce mosquito breeding
places.
Integrated vector management and personal protection
measures are useful complements to MDA.
2.
Treatment to prevent and alleviate disabilities due to LF
The common
disabilities are lymphoedema, particularly of
extremities in both males and females and hydrocoele
in males.
Affected patients
are empowered to effectively manage lymphoedema,
through simple but rigorous hygiene techniques. Most patients with symptoms
require lifelong therapy to alleviate lymphoedema.
However, surgery provides a lasting cure for patients with hydrocoels. A public health approach is encouraged for hydrocelectomy.
WHO Guidelines:
 Training
module on community home-based prevention of disability due to lymphatic filariasis: Learner’s Guide
Training
module on community home-based prevention of disability due to lymphatic filariasis: Tutor’s Guide
Community
home-based prevention of disability due to lymphatic filariasis:
Flipchart
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