In addition to providing badly needed treatment for elephantiasis, this approach also has long-term benefits for the country. If we can help them set up a system in which to get the drugs to the people who need them for elephantiasis, then this system may be applicable for other treatments. This is an area in which Mackenzie has a lot of experience. Mackenzie recently returned from the east African nation of Tanzania, where more than 40,000 people were treated for the disease. Other MSU roles in the project will include providing fellowships that will allow students in endemic countries to study at MSU and the development of a program web site.
Elephantiasis is spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes.
Worldwide, it' s estimated that one in 10 people are at risk of the disease and that one in 50 is infected. Its most common symptoms are enlargement of the legs, arms and genitals. Internally, the disease can cause damage to the kidneys and lymphatic system. In addition, the psychosocial and social stigma associated with the disease are immense. On our latest trip to Africa, elephantiasis patients we spoke to said they knew of someone with the disease who had committed suicide.