WHO/Yoshi Shimizu
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Lymphatic filariasis
Lymphatic filariasis in the Western Pacific
Lymphatic filariasis is a parasitic disease that can result in an altered lymphatic system and the abnormal enlargement of body parts, causing pain, severe disability and social stigma. Infection occurs when filarial parasites are transmitted to humans through mosquitoes. The majority of infections show no external signs of infection, but they still cause damage to the lymphatic system and the kidneys as well as alter the body’s immune system. When lymphatic filariasis develops into chronic conditions, it leads to lymphoedema (tissue swelling) or elephantiasis (skin/tissue thickening) of limbs and hydrocele (scrotal swelling).
Elimination of lymphatic filariasis is possible by stopping the spread of the infection through preventive chemotherapy.
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