Global programme to eliminate lymphatic filariasis: progress report, 2014

Overview

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is targeted for global elimination as a public health problem by 2020. This disease is caused by infection with 3 species of filarial parasites, Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi and B. timori, which are transmitted from person to person by mosquitoes. Hydrocoele, lymphoedema and elephantiasis are the overt, chronic disabling consequences observed in patients with these damaging parasitic infections of the lymphatic vessels.