Elephantiasis?!

Are you infected with Elephantiasis?
You actually might not know because the infection is acquired in childhood but manifests later in life.

Elephantiasis actually infects more than 1.4 billion people in 73 countries. This disease is caused by infection with nematodes. Infection happens when parasites are transmitted to humans through mosquitos. When a mosquito has is infected with larvae and bites a person, the parasites become disposited on the skin, where they can enter the body. The larvae migrates to the lymphatic vessels where they develop in the lymphatic system into adult worms. Once the grow into an adult size, worms enter the lymphatic system and interrupts the processes that occur in the immune system. They can live in their for 6-8 years! EEEWWWW!

The symptoms are inflammation of the skin, lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels. When it the disease develops into chronic conditions, limbs have an increase in fluid accumulation. Most body parts are affected. As a result, the body grows larger in size.

The treatment is medication that can clear microfilarie from the bloodstream. Using mosquito nets and mosquito spray can help prevent mosquito bites and prevent infection.  Those are who infected with the disease are required to keep and maintain hygiene and take further precautions.

Tip: Mosquitos also cause other diseases so prevent yourself from becoming infected!
Below is a picture of a lady infected with Elephanitis.