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Filariasis
Lymphatic filariasis is widespread throughout coastal Papua New Guinea, but only in certain areas is there a high prevalence of clinical disease. One such area is around Dreikikir in East Sepik Province, where the Institute's principal filariasis research project is being carried out, in collaboration with colleagues from Case Western Reserve University. Epidemiological, parasitological, immunological, clinical and vector studies are in progress as well as a long-term, community-based treatment program against the disease which compares the efficacy of diethylcarbamazine (DEC) alone and in combination with ivermectin. The results from the study so far indicate striking effects on infection and transmission which give encouragement to the campaign for the elimination of lymphatic filariasis. A national working group has been established and communities at risk have been encouraged to carry out their own program of supervised mass drug administration. Interventions against the vector have also been evaluated and are likely to be effective. More recently, a study of the effect on filariasis of community-based treatment with albendazole has been started on Bagabag, off the coast of Madang.
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