By Linda Diep

Mapping of Loa Loa Filariasis (also known as loiasis) could help in the innovation of new strategies to eliminate and control onchocerciasis (river blindness) and lymphatic filariasis (LF), according to a recently released article from the open-access journal PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases. The study found that mapping — a systematic method used in public health to monitor and track the pattern of a disease — could prove to be an effective way to help develop treatment for loiasis.

In African countries, an estimated 14 million people reside in the most high risk areas of loiasis, a disease that affects the skin and eyes causing itchiness, swelling, and pain. Loiasis is caused by the parasitic worm Loa Loa, and is transmitted through a bite from the African deer fly. Many sufferers of loiasis are also co-infected with river blindness and LF. In the past, co-infected individuals who have taken ivermectin, a drug used in the treatment of river blindness and LF, have experienced severe adverse neurological effects such as encephalopathy, which can put lives in danger. Continue reading →