Lymphatic Filariasis

Mosquitoes carry very small worms. The worms damage the body’s lymph system (the system that drains fluid).

Years later, the legs or the scrotum can become very swollen. People sometimes call this “elephantiasis”.

The whole community takes medicine once a year for several years. This stops the worms from spreading.

• Wash the swollen part with soap and water every day.
• Keep the skin clean and dry.
• Move and exercise.
• Raise the leg when you rest.

These help stop painful attacks. A doctor can often fix a swollen scrotum with an operation.

Nets and fewer mosquitoes protect you from this sickness and from malaria.