Filariasis

A. Description of the Communicable Disease: Filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, is a

parasitic disease caused by thread-like filarial nematodes. The disease is transmitted to
humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes.

B. Infectious Agent/Causative Agent: The filarial nematodes that cause filariasis include
Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori.

C. Signs and Symptoms: The signs and symptoms of filariasis can include lymphedema,
swelling of the limbs, hydrocele, thickening of the skin, and fever. In some cases, the
infection may not cause any symptoms.

D. Mode/Methods of Transmission: Filariasis is transmitted to humans through the bite

of infected mosquitoes, which act as the vector for the disease.

E. Period of Communicability: The period of communicability for filariasis is not well-

defined, but infected individuals can be a source of infection for mosquitoes that bite
them and then transmit the infection to others.

F. Period of Susceptibility: Anyone can be susceptible to filariasis if they are bitten by an

infected mosquito.

G. Management/Methods of Treatment/Control and Prevention: The management and

treatment of filariasis include the use of medication to kill the filarial worms, as well as
measures to prevent the transmission of the disease through mosquito control. The
Strengthened DOH – National Control Program includes efforts to reduce the
prevalence of filariasis in the Philippines through mass drug administration, surveillance,
and community-based interventions.

H. The Strengthened DOH – National Control Program: The Strengthened DOH –

National Control Program is a program in the Philippines that aims to reduce the
prevalence of filariasis through a variety of measures, including mass drug
administration, surveillance, and community-based interventions. The program is also
working to improve the diagnosis and treatment of filariasis, as well as to raise
awareness about the disease and how to prevent it.