Lymphatic Filariasis

Lymphatic filariasis is a disease caused by parasitic worms. It is spread from person to person by infected mosquitoes that pass on the worms when they bite. People are often infected with lymphatic filariasis during childhood and it causes damage to their lymph system over time. 

The symptoms of lymphatic filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, are easy to spot. Many people suffer from extremely painful swelling of the legs and men often develop scrotal swelling, a condition known as hydrocele.

Severely swollen limbs are almost impossible to hide and many people suffering with this disease are seen as a burden. They are ostracised by their families and thrown out of their communities.

Isolated and unable to work or do daily activities, many people with lymphatic filariasis fall into a cycle of despair.

We work in four districts of Andhra Pradesh to support people with lymphatic filariasis. We offer morbidity care, self-care kits, training, and referral to hospital for medication. We also partner with the local government to secure disability pensions for people who can’t work because of this disease.