Skip to main content

Table 2 Lymphatic Filariasis as a unique and successful programme

From: Lymphatic Filariasis (Elephantiasis) Elimination: A public health success and development opportunity

   • Two drugs (largely donated or inexpensive) once per year for time limited duration

• DEC + albendazole in areas where onchocerciasis is not endemic

• Albendazole + Mectizan® where onchocerciasis is co-endemic with lymphatic filariasis

   • Two major pharmaceutical companies involved

   • A global disease (80 endemic countries; 1+ billion at risk) but regionalised programmatically

   • Many synergistic/integration opportunities in the programme (See Table 4)

   • Major successes already demonstrated

   • Disability alleviation and prevention component to increase coverage and compliance via household and community self help

   • Mass drug distribution – an overtly pro-poor intervention

   • Intervention provides entry point to both rural and urban health settings

   • Different drug distribution systems dependent on country decisions

   • Separation of programmatic and GAELF responsibilities

   • A free non-restrictive alliance with diverse partners

   • Strong involvement of academic institutions and research funders

   • Wide use of IT for dissemination and communication