What is lymphatic filariasis?

Sightsavers is fighting hard to eliminate lymphatic filariasis in the countries in which we work by 2030.

While river blindness is transmitted by the black fly and lymphatic filariasis by the mosquito, both diseases are caused by an infection of a filarial worm and often occur in the same places. Where they are co-endemic, Sightsavers coordinates treatments for these two diseases using Mectizan® tablets, donated by pharmaceutical company Merck Sharpe & Dohme (MSD), and albendazole tablets, donated by GlaxoSmithKline.

In countries where river blindness is not co-endemic, lymphatic filariasis is treated using diethylcarbamazine, produced by Eisai, and albendazole tablets, donated by GlaxoSmithKline.

In 2022, we provided more than 53 million treatments for LF worldwide. We also trained more than 225,000 local volunteers to distribute medication via mass drug administration to treat a range of neglected tropical diseases, including lymphatic filariasis.

Although people with advanced lymphoedema cannot be cured, the symptoms can be eased through surgery and care. Sightsavers works with WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) organisations to help households access clean water and facilities, so people can clean their limbs and care for their skin. Symptoms can also be helped by elevating limbs and by wearing footwear. Hydrocele can be cured through surgery, transforming the lives of men affected.