Establishing a lymphatic filariasis morbidity plan for Haiti.

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a parasitic infection that is the leading cause of disability in the world. In Haiti, LF is considered a national disease, with many people suffering from the disfiguring and disabling effects of the disease. Eradication efforts have been under way since 1997 with projections for no new transmissions by 2020. As eradication nears, the focus has shifted to morbidity management as many patients with LF suffer from the debilitating effects of lymphoedema and hydrocele. Although there is no cure, treatment is available, leading to significant outcomes. Patients managed at the clinic in Léogâne achieved reductions in limb volume, improved skin integrity, independence with self-care, enhanced quality of life, improvements in functional abilities and activities of daily living, the ability to return to work and experienced reduced perceptions of social stigma.