Geneva

In 2007, 546 million people around the world were treated to prevent transmission of lymphatic filariasis (LF), commonly known as elephantiasis. The numbers reached in 2007 make the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis the largest public health programme using mass drug administration (MDA) to prevent a tropical disease.

A total of 81 countries are endemic for the disease. In 2007, treatment was delivered at an increased rate in 48 countries, 27 of which are implementing disability prevention activities (the second component of the programme). These activities are expected to reinforce community acceptance of MDA and are deemed essential to eliminate LF as a global public health problem.

Attached file: Treatment Report 2007