Learner's Guide - Global Alliance to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis

Goal and Strategy
Learner’s Guide
2 - Disability prevention and control
New, effective and simple techniques have been developed to alleviate the
suffering caused by acute and chronic manifestations of the disease such as
acute inflammatory attacks, lymphoedema, hydrocoele and elephantiasis of
the limbs or genitals; secondary infections associated with damaged lymphatics
can now be effectively treated and prevented. These techniques are particularly
effective in preventing painful, debilitating and damaging episodes of
lymphangitis and can even reverse much of the damage already sustained.
They consist of regular washing with soap and water, regular exercising of
the limbs, and other simple activities easily carried out in the home.
It is necessary to raise awareness in affected patients and to implement as
many community education programmes as possible to promote the benefits
of these simple, effective local hygiene measures.
You should read carefully
the next section of this guide
before commencing the session
to which it relates.
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