ASHA ShikshaVector-borne Diseases (NVBDCP) · 4/5
Lymphatic filariasis (hathipaon)
accessibilityWhat is filaria
Filaria spreads by the Culex mosquito, which breeds in dirty water. The worm damages the body over years and causes swelling of legs (hathipaon) or hydrocele. Most infected people have no signs for years.
It can be prevented but swelling cannot be fully cured.
medicationMass drug administration (MDA)
During MDA, everyone eligible must take the tablets (DEC + albendazole, or with ivermectin - IDA) in front of the health worker. Not given to children under 2 years, pregnant women, and seriously ill people.
Tell people to eat before taking the tablets.
clean_handsCare of swollen limbs
Wash the swollen leg daily with soap and water, dry it well, keep the skin clean, exercise and raise the leg. Hydrocele can be cured by a free operation.
Make a line list of patients with swelling or hydrocele.
infoFor training ASHA workers. Always follow your ANM, Medical Officer and the latest Government guidelines. In an emergency, call 108.