Elephantiasis Outbreak Sparks Alarm in Mashonaland West as Dozens of Students Infected

By Dr Masimba Mavaza

The government has been urged to take immediate action following a concerning outbreak of elephantiasis in Mashonaland West province.

Elephantiasis, a parasitic disease spread by infected mosquitoes, impacts the lymph nodes and vessels. it is a condition in which a limb or other part of the body becomes very enlarged due to obstruction of the lymphatic vessels, typically by the nematodeparasites which cause filariasis.
Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, is a painful and profoundly disfiguring disease. It is caused by infection with parasites classified as nematodes (roundworms) of the family Filariodidea that are transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitos.
Cases have emerged in Kariba and Mhondoro Ngezi, with the outbreak first noticed after several students in rural Kariba exhibited symptoms.
According to Kariba legislator Shine Gwangwava, 21 students tested positive for the disease following evaluations.
Schools in Kalundu, Mola, and Kauzhumba each reported two cases, while Kasvisva, Msambakaruma, Kanyati, Negande, and Kadziro had three cases each.
“What is worrying is that the disease can affect multiple generations and cause long-term health issues,” Gwangwava expressed, adding that many residents along the Zambezi Valley are at risk due to the region’s mosquito-friendly tributaries.

Overview
Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, is a neglected tropical disease. Infection occurs when filarial parasites are transmitted to humans through mosquitoes. Infection is usually acquired in childhood and causes hidden damage to the lymphatic system. Who is most at risk for elephantiasis?
Lymphoedema and its more advanced form, elephantiasis, occur primarily in the lower limbs and are commoner in women.
Chronic swelling or pain may also impact a person’s ability to work. While elephantiasis has no cure, you can manage the condition and reduce its symptoms How is elephantiasis treated? If someone has been infected, they can be treated with medicine to kill the worms.
Zimbabwean news Zimbawave has provided some helpful points to deal with the disease.

What can I expect if I have elephantiasis?
People with elephantiasis often experience negative social impacts. If they have very visible, severe symptoms like extreme swelling, they may experience social stigma. Chronic swelling or pain may also impact a person’s ability to work. While elephantiasis has no cure, you can manage the condition and reduce its symptoms.
When should I see my healthcare provider?
If you develop unexplained swelling or thickening of your skin — particularly in your arms, legs, breasts, scrotum or vulva — let a healthcare provider know. They can run tests to confirm or rule out a diagnosis.
You may also want to ask your healthcare provider:
* What’s the most likely cause of elephantiasis?
* How can I manage symptoms related to elephantiasis?
* What treatment do you recommend for elephantiasis?
* Are there any side effects of treatment?
* What are the chances that an infection will return after treatment?
* How can I prevent elephantiasis?
Even if medication kills the filarial worms, you can still develop lymphedema. To manage lymphedema symptoms, you can:
* Disinfect and cover any wounds.
* Elevate (raise) swollen arms or legs.
* Increase your activity level. (This can encourage the flow of lymphatic fluid.)
* Wash and dry swollen areas of your body daily.
* Wear properly fitted shoes to reduce your risk of falling and getting injured.

Elephantiasis is common in sub-tropical and tropical climates, where filarial worms thrive. It usually takes repeated bites from infected mosquitos for a person to get the condition. So, most cases occur in people who live in high-risk regions. It’s rare for short-term tourists to get elephantiasis. Still, if you develop symptoms, it’s important to tell a healthcare provider. A simple blood test can confirm whether you have a parasitic infection.