Overview
Filariasis is a mosquito-borne parasitic infection that damages the body's lymph channels, and it is a major cause of long-term disability in parts of India. Over years it can lead to heavy, lasting swelling of the legs or genitals, known as elephantiasis. Early infection is often silent. Mass drug programmes aim to eliminate it, and while established swelling cannot be reversed, careful skin care and hygiene prevent painful attacks and further damage.
Symptoms
- Often no symptoms in the early years
- Repeated attacks of fever with painful, swollen limbs
- Gradual, lasting swelling of a leg, arm or genitals
- Thick, hardened skin over the swollen part
- Swollen, tender lymph glands
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for repeated fevers with limb swelling, or any lasting swelling of a limb or genitals, and take part in mass drug programmes.
Causes
Thread-like filarial worms spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes; the worms block and damage the lymphatic vessels over time.