Infectious Diseases >> Filaria

What is it?

Filariasis is a disease generally found only in the tropical regions. Lymphatic filariasis is a parasitic disease caused by microscopic, thread-like nematode worms mainly by Wuchereria bancrofti. The parasite is spread from person to person by infected mosquitoes. Long-term exposure and repeated infections can cause severe damage to the lymph system and serious, debilitating complications. Prevention centers on controlling mosquito populations in communities and avoiding mosquito bites.