Approaches to the control and elimination of the clinically important filarial diseases

ABSTRACT

Mass drug administration programs are the mainstay of current attempts to control and rid the globe of the two major filarial diseases of humans, onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis. There are a number of important components to developing and maintaining a treatment program; these include advocacy, communication, financial support, and the presence of local "champions" to lead the program. Two active country programs -lymphatic filariasis elimination in Tanzania and onchocerciasis control in Sudan -provide practical examples of these program needs. There are a number of positive consequences of a successful program that extend outside the primary goal of disease control or elimination; these include national infrastructure and personnel development. The challenges and consequent actions that could be taken to ensure the success of control programs are discussed