Elimination of lymphatic filariasis: Health personnel capacities strengthened in the North

In Garoua, from February 4 to 5, 2024, a training workshop was held to strengthen the skills of health personnel in the region in the fight against lymphatic filariasis, a neglected tropical disease affecting a large population.

The discussions made it possible to put in place strategies to improve the detection, diagnosis and management of the disease in this part of the country, within the framework of the “Elfa” project.

Work organized by theNational Program for the Fight againstOnchocerciasis and Lymphatic Filariasis. Supported by Sightsavers.

Lymphatic filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, is a mosquito-borne parasitic disease. Ranked among the most common neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) worldwide, it affects nearly 1.4 billion people in 73 countries. Its public health impact is considerable, ranging from minor cosmetic complaints to severe and disabling physical deformities, including elephantiasis (enlarged limbs), lymphedema (swelling of the limbs) and hydrocele (fluid in the bursa). These complications can cause severe physical suffering, social exclusion, reduced productivity and significant economic hardship for those affected. The World Health Organization (WHO) has set ambitious targets for the elimination of lymphatic filariasis. Its recommendations are based on a combined approach that includes mass chemotherapy to interrupt transmission of the disease, as well as management of existing morbidity. The ultimate goal is to reduce disease incidence to a level low enough to interrupt parasite transmission.

Cameroon faces a major challenge, a worrying situation in the North

In Cameroon, the treatment of lymphatic filariasis is based on the combined administration of ivermectin and albendazole. These drugs, already distributed in 143 health districts in the country, are an essential tool in the fight against the disease. However, the situation remains alarming, particularly in the Northern region, where the incidence of lymphatic filariasis remains high. Risk factors, such as poverty, limited access to health care, poor hygiene conditions and the density of the mosquito vector population, contribute to the persistence and spread of the disease. It is in this worrying context that the “Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis in Africa” project intervenes. This program, financially and technically supported by Sightsavers, a major international partner in the fight against blindness and neglected tropical diseases, provides valuable support to Cameroon in its efforts to eliminate lymphatic filariasis.

Strengthening the capacities of health personnel, a unifying objective

The Garoua training workshop aimed specifically at strengthening the capacities of health personnel in the health districts of the Northern region. For two days, participants benefited from intensive training provided by national trainers experienced in the management of lymphatic filariasis complications, national supervisors and field experts. The training modules covered a wide range of essential topics, including general information on lymphatic filariasis. It was a question of looking at the definition, the life cycle of the parasite, the modes of transmission, the risk factors. The clinical manifestations of the disease. It was about the identification of signs and symptoms, differential diagnosis with other conditions and the management of lymphatic filariasis complications. Participants also had the opportunity to exchange their experiences, share their challenges and propose concrete solutions to improve the detection and management of lymphatic filariasis in their respective districts. Lively discussions highlighted the importance of intersectoral collaboration and community awareness for effective disease control.

Future prospects that lead to a collective struggle for eradication

This training workshop marks an important milestone in the fight against lymphatic filariasis in the Northern Region. Capacity building of health workers is a crucial element to improve early detection, diagnosis and adequate patient management. Collaboration with technical partners, such as Sightsavers, as well as the commitment of national and local health authorities, are essential to ensure the long-term success of this initiative. The road to the elimination of lymphatic filariasis remains long and challenging, but this training workshop represents a significant step towards a future where local populations are free from the burden of this devastating disease. Continued training of health workers and increased awareness among populations remain top priorities to ensure effective management of existing morbidity and prevent new infections.

Marcus DARE