Bangladesh eliminates lymphatic filariasis

In a boost to efforts to end neglected tropical diseases in WHO South-East Asia Region, Bangladesh has eliminated lymphatic filariasis, said the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Saturday.

This is a disease that cripples and has significant social and economic impact on the affected communities.

“Bangladesh’s achievement is commendable and follows strong political commitment, tireless efforts by health authorities, partners and the communities. It is also a result of innovative approaches and meticulous implementation of elimination strategies,” said Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, the regional director of WHO South-East Asia, who has been prioritising ending neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in the region as one of the flagship programmes.

Lymphatic filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, occurs when filarial parasites are transmitted to humans through mosquito bites.