Mapping of Lymphatic Filariasis by Observation of Elephantiasis in Enugu State, Southeastern Nigeria

Background: Lymphatic filariasis (LF) caused by filarial parasites can lead to complication like swollen legs with rough thickened skin, known as elephantiasis. A study of mapping of LF by observation of elephantiasis in five Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Enugu State.

Aim: The study was to determine the prevalence of elephantiasis according to gender, age and occupation and to develop map of LF prevalence in Enugu State, Southeastern Nigeria.

Study Design: The study was a cross-sectional survey of the studied population for elephantiasis. A total of 349 persons aged 15 years and above, participated in the study. The study was conducted between January and May, 2018 and the participants were selected through systemic sampling technique.

Materials and Methods: Physical examination of individuals was employed to determine elephantiasis. Geographic Information System (GIS) was used for mapping.

Results: A total of 4.9% (17) prevalence of elephantiasis was recorded. Females had highest prevalence, 8.3% (13) against 2.1% (4) in males. There was significant association between elephantiasis and gender (X2 = 7.158, df = 1, p = 0.007, (p < 0.05)). Age group 45 – 54 years had the highest prevalence of 12.3% (7) while no case was observed in age groups 15 – 24 years, 25 – 34 years and 35 – 44 years. There was significant association between elephantiasis and age (X2 = 13.934, df = 5, p = 0.016, (p < 0.05)). Artisans with a prevalence of 11.4% (4) had the highest prevalence, while no case was reported in students, civil servants and carpentry occupation groups. There was no significant association between elephantiasis and occupation (X2 = 4.917, df = 5, p = 0.426, p > 0.05)). Nkanu East (Onichagu) had the highest prevalence with 5 cases (9.1%) while Awgu (Ibite) had the least with 3 cases (3.0%).

Conclusion: People living with LF morbidity are in the study area. The State Ministry of Health and Partners should develop morbidity management activities that will alleviate the burden of elephantiasis.