Filariasis commonly known as “elephantiasis” is a disease caused by a parasite transmitted by mosquito

Signs and Symptoms

    • Pain and swelling of the breast, vagina, scrotum, legs and arms
    • Fever
    • Cough
    • Chills
    • Wheezing

Prevention

    • Wear long sleeve shirt and long pants when working in farms or areas endemic of filariasis.
    • Sleep under a mosquito net.

Treatment

    • Selective treatment with DEC (Diethylcarbamazine Citrate) is given to people with clinical manifestations of the disease.
    • Mass treament of the people living in established endemic areas.
    • Medicines (DEC and albendazole) are given once a year for 5 years.