Summary

This project will identify the brugian species of filariasis in our country in both humans and animals and also their vectors. The main benefit of the proposed research is that it directly investigates a rising concern in the country and will help address this issue before it becomes a national problem and a threat to the country’s Lymphatic Filariasis elimination status. The host of information generated by successful completion of this project is essential for implementation of targeted treatment or control effort. Moreover, this information will head-start further research in the country in developing new diagnostics as well as more targeted, efficacious drugs for combatting this disease. The international scientific community will be highly receptive of such studies since they will address a global health concern, opening doors for international collaborations and national development therein. Upon completion of the project, the information generated in objective two regarding the vectors of the brugian parasites in our country can be utilized immediately by the Anti Filariasis Campaign and the Ministry of Health without further delay. Control measures targeting these specific mosquito species can be implemented immediately, directly hindering further transmission of this disease.

Objectives

• Objective 1: Identify and characterize the brugian parasites of humans and animals in endemic areas in Sri Lanka.
• Objective 2: Identify the vector mosquitoes of these brugian parasites and analyze their breeding and feeding behavior to generate knowledge imperative for developing effective vector control measures.

Major Equipment Facilitated by Grant