Lymphatic filariasis: principles of prevention and control

Lymphatic filariasis: principles of prevention and control

Lymphatic filariasis (LF), also known as elephantiasis, is a parasitic infection transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. The disease is characterized by the swelling of limbs and genitals, which can be disfiguring and disabling. There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for LF, so prevention and control measures are critical to reduce the spread of the disease. Here are some principles of prevention and control for LF:

1. Mass drug administration (MDA): MDA is the distribution of drugs to entire populations in endemic areas to kill the worms and prevent the spread of the disease. The drugs used for MDA are ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine (DEC), and albendazole.
2. Mosquito control: The most effective way to prevent LF is to control the mosquito population in areas where the disease is prevalent. This can be done through the use of insecticides, mosquito repellents, and mosquito nets.
3. Education and awareness: Education and awareness campaigns can help people understand the risks associated with LF and the importance of prevention and control measures.
4. Surveillance: Surveillance systems can help detect outbreaks of LF and monitor the spread of the disease. This can help public health authorities take appropriate measures to control the disease.
5. Case management: Early diagnosis and appropriate case management can help reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent complications.
6. Vector control: In addition to mosquito control, other measures to control the transmission of LF include environmental management, such as the removal of standing water where mosquitoes breed, and the use of biological control agents.
7. Disability management: Rehabilitation and disability management services can help people with chronic LF-related disabilities to regain mobility and improve their quality of life.

Overall, a comprehensive approach to prevention and control is required to reduce the incidence and impact of LF. This involves a combination of mass drug administration, mosquito control, education and awareness, surveillance, case management, vector control measures, and disability management services.

Final Year B Pharm Notes, Syllabus, Books, PDF Subjectwise/Topicwise

Final Year B Pharm Sem VII	BP701T Instrumental Methods of Analysis Theory
BP702T Industrial Pharmacy Theory	BP703T Pharmacy Practice Theory
BP704T Novel Drug Delivery System Theory	BP705 P Instrumental Methods of Analysis Practical
Final Year B Pharm Sem VII	BP801T Biostatistics and Research Methodology Theory
BP802T Social and Preventive Pharmacy Theory	BP803ET Pharmaceutical Marketing Theory
BP804ET Pharmaceutical Regulatory Science Theory	BP805ET Pharmacovigilance Theory
BP806ET Quality Control and Standardization of Herbals Theory	BP807ET Computer-Aided Drug Design Theory
BP808ET Cell and Molecular Biology Theory	BP809ET Cosmetic Science Theory
BP810ET Experimental Pharmacology Theory	BP811ET Advanced Instrumentation Techniques Theory
BP812ET Dietary supplements and Nutraceuticals	Pharmaceutical Product Development

Suggested readings:

• Filariasis Symptoms, Causative agents, transmission, prevention, control
• Disorders of the lymphatic system
• Lymphatic organs and tissues
• Indicators of health: Social Pharmacy Syllabus Notes PDF MCQ
• Malaria: principles of prevention and control