Lymphatic filariasis in migrant population in non-endemic states - Need to cover by Mass Drug Administration (MDA)

Abstract

Background: Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is targeted by WHO for global elimination as a public health problem by year2020. GoI is signatory to WHO resolution and envisaged elimination by instituting annual mass drug administration (MDA) in all endemic districts under NVBDCP by year 2015.With rapid industrialization and urbanization, large number of landless farmer, unskilled/skilled labour migrate either singly or with entire family members to other states (which may be non-endemic for LF) in search of employment. These migrants from endemic states escape MDA beings migrated to non-endemic states.

Aims and Objectives: To find out prevalence of LF and MF density among migrant staying in non-endemic states and assess needs to institute MDA in such migrants.

Material & Methods: This study was a cross sectional epidemiological study carried out in migrant population staying at/near the construction site covering the population of 1640. However, only 1092 person participated in the study.

Result: A total of 1092 people agreed to participate in the study, out of which, 22 were found MF positive and 4 presented with clinical signs of LF. The study found MF prevalence of 2.01% with average MF density of 3.90.

Conclusion: Endemicity (2.01%) of MF among migratory population more than national average (0.45%), which is capable of continuing transmission (>1%) in population at risk living in non-endemic states where MDA is not administered.