Transmission: Caused by the nematode parasite Wuchereria Bancrofti, Brugia malayi and Brugia timori and is transmitted by the Culex mosquito. When a mosquito bites an infected human the parasites mature within the mosquito that can then transfer LF to another person. The fully matured worms reside in the lymphatic system of infected individuals and reproduce. 


 

Symptoms: LF symptom severity can be acute, chronic or severe. There is typically no symptoms associated with infection ultimately increasing the risk of spread. Asymptomatically, the lymphatic system of the person infected will be damaged along with damage to the kidneys and the body's immune system. 

Chronic conditions as  result of LF include:

Lymphoedema: tissue swelling 

Elephantiasis: skin and tissue thickening in the limbs

Hydrocele: scrotal swelling 

Acute episodes of swelling and scarring are often accompanied by the chronic conditions for weeks on end. 

Host:  No specific mosquito species act as the sole vector. A person has to be bitten many times in order to become infected. 

Risk: Being in an environment and staying for prolonged time where the parasites are endemic. Not taking preventative measures against mosquito bites. 

Treatment: You can stop the spread of LF through preventative chemotherapy. MDA which is a technique used to distribute mass amounts of medication and treatment to a whole risk groups typically one time a year. MDA along with preventive chemotherapy is the current treatment strategy.  

Prevention: Use approved mosquito repellant along with covering skin to avoid being bitten by mosquito. . Know the risk of LF within your area and all preventive measures that can be taken. Currently vector control and MDA are the current sources of prevention of LF.