Table 2.

Lymphatic Filariasis as a unique and successful programme

• Two drugs (largely donated or inexpensive) once per year for time limited duration

• DEC + albendazole in areas where onchocerciasis is not endemic

• Albendazole + Mectizan® where onchocerciasis is co-endemic with lymphatic filariasis

• Two major pharmaceutical companies involved

• A global disease (80 endemic countries; 1+ billion at risk) but regionalised programmatically

• Many synergistic/integration opportunities in the programme (See Table 4)

• Major successes already demonstrated

• Disability alleviation and prevention component to increase coverage and compliance via household and community self help

• Mass drug distribution – an overtly pro-poor intervention

• Intervention provides entry point to both rural and urban health settings

• Different drug distribution systems dependent on country decisions

• Separation of programmatic and GAELF responsibilities

• A free non-restrictive alliance with diverse partners

• Strong involvement of academic institutions and research funders

• Wide use of IT for dissemination and communication