Preventive measures activated against lymphatic filiarisis

Surat, Dec 25 (UNI) The district Health Department and Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) officials have initiated preventive measures against the spread of filariasis, which has created a scare in many districts of South Gujarat, by distributing dieethylcabamyzine (DEC) tablets to the people.

Filariasis is a disease caused by parasitic worms called filariae, which is spread by culex mosquitoes. Filariae are microscopic roundworms that dwell in the blood and tissues of humans, health officials said, adding that lymphatic filariasis is sometimes referred to as ''elephantiasis''.

The campaign against filariasis and distribution of DEC tablets are also active in other south Gujarat districts like Navsari and Valsad, sources said.

Health authorities have instructed the public to prevent waterlogging, which allow the culex mosquitoes to breed in large numbers.

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