Lao People’s Democratic Republic Achieves Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination

October 19, 2023

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared that the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) has successfully eliminated lymphatic filariasis (LF), marking its second neglected tropical disease (NTD) elimination in just six years. In 2017, Lao PDR achieved the elimination of trachoma as a public health hazard. This achievement demonstrates the country’s dedication and collaborative efforts in public health.

Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination

Significant Milestone: LF, also known as elephantiasis, is a mosquito-borne infectious disease that causes severe health issues such as hydrocele, lymphedema, and elephantiasis. The elimination of LF is a significant milestone in public health.
Second Elimination: Lao PDR is the second country, following Bangladesh in 2023, to eliminate LF this year. Nineteen countries, including Lao PDR, have successfully eliminated LF according to the WHO progress report released in October 2023.

Mass Drug Administration (MDA)

Effective Treatment: Mass drug administration (MDA) is the most cost-effective method for treating LF. It involves providing treatment to all residents in LF-endemic areas to halt transmission. The WHO recommends a triple therapy combination of ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine, and albendazole for MDA against LF.
Global Progress: Over the past 15 years, the global population requiring LF interventions has decreased by 53%. Governments and partners have made concerted efforts under the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis, launched in 2000, to achieve this progress.

Road Map for NTDs 2021-2030

Target Achieved: The Road Map for NTDs 2021-2030 set a target to eliminate LF from 23 countries by 2023. Lao PDR’s achievement contributes to this global effort to combat NTDs.
Ongoing Efforts: While many countries have made progress and are on the path to eliminating LF, they must meet specific criteria for validation. Some countries, including Kenya, are progressing toward LF elimination and may no longer require MDA.

Global Goal of NTD Elimination

UN Sustainable Development Goal: The elimination of NTDs by 2030 aligns with the United Nations-mandated global sustainable development goal of “health for all” (SDG 3). It reflects the world’s commitment to addressing NTDs and improving global health.
Global Impact: Lao PDR’s achievement sets an example for many countries and moves the world closer to a future free of NTDs.

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