Is the Govt’s 5-Pronged Strategy Key to Eradicating Lymphatic Filariasis?

New Delhi, Aug 13 (NationPress) As India strives for the complete elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) by 2027, the five-pronged approach spearheaded by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) is yielding positive outcomes, according to Dr. NK Ganguly, the former Director General at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

In an interview with IANS, Ganguly emphasized the government's commitment to tackling this painful and severely disfiguring condition, often referred to as elephantiasis.

With approximately 670 million individuals at risk -- which constitutes nearly 40 percent of the global burden of this disease -- LF continues to impose a significant strain on India’s healthcare system.

“About 750,000 people in India suffer from debilitating conditions related to LF, including lymphoedema and hydrocele. These ailments not only inflict physical pain but also impose a heavy social stigma, hindering patients' ability to work and engage fully in community life,” stated Ganguly during his conversation with IANS.

Additionally, the economic implications of LF in India are considerable, with the WHO estimating annual productivity losses to be around Rs 800 billion. The disease's lengthy incubation phase, often spanning years before symptoms emerge, makes its effects both subtle and persistent.

“Thus, the elimination of LF stands as a pressing public health goal -- not only for alleviating disease burden but also for safeguarding livelihoods and enhancing economic productivity,” Ganguly remarked.

“Encouragingly, India’s five-pronged strategy, initiated by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), is demonstrating tangible results. As of July 2025, over 143 districts have reported microfilarial transmission rates below 1 percent, which meets the criteria for discontinuing Mass Drug Administration (MDA),” the esteemed microbiologist indicated to IANS.

The five-pronged strategy launched earlier this year encompasses a biannual MDA campaign synchronized with National Deworming Day (NDD); management of morbidity and disability through early diagnosis and treatment; vector control involving surveillance and management; high-level advocacy across various ministries; and innovative tactics utilizing existing digital platforms for LF while exploring alternative diagnostic methods.

“MDA coverage rates have now surpassed 85 percent in numerous regions, progressively approaching the ambitious 95 percent target. Once deemed unattainable, these goals are now within reach thanks to the relentless efforts of frontline workers, policymakers, and community stakeholders,” Ganguly reported.

He also noted a noticeable increase in community awareness and engagement, attributed to state-led information, education, and communication (IEC) initiatives that have been crucial in fostering awareness.

“Learning from the successful polio eradication campaign, health departments have engaged local influencers, community leaders, and innovative communication methods to dispel myths and normalize participation. Consequently, coverage rates in certain districts have surged from approximately 40-42 percent to over 87 percent, signifying a remarkable enhancement in community engagement,” the expert explained.

Moreover, Ganguly commended the dedication of frontline workers, including ASHAs and ANMs, dubbing them “the backbone of India’s LF elimination initiative.” He emphasized their efforts in conducting nighttime campaigns and door-to-door outreach to ensure maximum drug distribution during MDA rounds, particularly for those who are unavailable during daytime hours due to employment.

Their role has proven highly effective in overcoming fears and misconceptions, particularly among mobile, marginalized, and geographically isolated communities, which have historically posed challenges to LF elimination.