Endgame strategies for filariasis elimination 2021 in Southeast Asia: A systematic review

Abstract

Objectives: Lymphatic filariasis is among neglected tropical diseases in Southeast Asia and Western Pacific Regions. It causes high morbidity due to a permanent disability that affects the lymphatic system drainage among those who were infected. The Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis launched by the World Health Organization to eliminate lymphatic filariasis. This review aims to find out how far the implementation of end game strategies in Southeast Asia countries through comparison of the prevalence, mass drug administration regimes used, programme coverage and programme challenges. Methods: A systematic search on articles related to lymphatic filariasis elimination programme in Southeast Asia was conducted using three databases namely Cochrane Library, PubMed and Ovid Medline. All the articles which were published within the year 2013 till 2018 assessed using the PRISMA checklist. Results: A total of five articles included in this review based on the PRISMA checklist. All countries in the studies showed mass drug administration (MDA) programme coverage of more than 65%. Albendazole and Diethylcarbamazine Citrate during MDA have shown to be an effective combination with an obvious reduction in the lymphatic filariasis prevalence post-MDA. Conclusions: Endgame strategies for lymphatic filariasis elimination are effective to reduce the prevalence of lymphatic filariasis. Hence, it is possible to achieve lymphatic filariasis elimination, through comprehensive programme strategies as well as extensive involvement of stakeholders that support the programme. However, it is crucial to overcome the programme challenges so that the journey towards lymphatic filariasis elimination year 2021 could be achieved smoothly.