"Lymphatic Filariasis" Forum in September

CEBU, Philippines - A non-government organization is hosting a forum in Cebu to assist the government in its effort to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis in the country.

Lymphatic Filariasis is an infection that occurs when parasites are transmitted to humans through mosquitoes. When a mosquito with infective stage larvae bites a person, the parasites are deposited on the person’s skin from where they enter the body. The larvae then migrate to the lymphatic vessels where they develop into adult worms in the human lymphatic system.

Infection is usually acquired in childhood, says the World Health Organization.

Acute episodes of the disease cause temporary or permanent disability.

The Coalition for the Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (CELF) Philippines is scheduled to hold the 4th Lymphatic and Neglected Tropic Diseases Forum in Cebu on September 13-14.

The organization has invited Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia to speak on the opening day of the forum which will be attended by participants from the 36 provinces.

Dennis Tuazon, board member of CELF-Phils., said they also sought the aid of the Provincial Government for its network and manpower to help in the conduct of the forum.

The Cebu forum on this topic will be anchored on the theme, “Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination and Neglected Tropical Diseases Control: Local Government Unit at the front line.”

The Integrated Provincial Health Office however said that this type of disease us very rare in Cebu. Although IPHO chief Dr. Cristina Giango said there were certain cases of Soil Transmitted Helminths recorded in the province.

Giango said STH cases are more of ascaris and pinworms. She said that the IPHO through the rural health units are conducting de-worming programs to pre-school children twice a year to prevent the spread of these diseases. — (FREEMAN)