BAGLUNG: Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as Elephantiasis has posed a health challenge again in Baglung. Just before the start of the 12th phase of Elephantiasis prevention campaign, the disease was found in Narayanthan of Balewa and Kushisera of Jaimini of the district. The disease was believed to have been prevented in six years of campaign.

But a sample test carried out recently for the prevention campaign found eight people carrying the infection, according to Health Office, Baglung. Eight people in Naransthan and two people in Jaimi were found carrying the disease that leads to enlargement of limbs and body parts due to tissue swelling.

Three of the people in Naransthan have experienced a reoccurrence of the tropical disease. Tests for Elephantiasis bacteria were carried out in 300 people in Narayansthan and 300 in Kushmisera.

Even though the campaign to wipe of Elephantiasis from Nepal is in the final phase, it has not been possible in seven districts of Nepal including Baglung, said Saroj Adhikari, Supervisor at the Infectious Disease Research and Training Centre, Hetauda. “Anti-elephantiasis drug is administered regularly for five years, and if the bacteria is not traced after five years, the campaign is deemed successful along with administration of the sixth and final dose,” he said. As a result, the campaign has to be extended by two more years in Baglung.