The disease caused by the hook worm is called?

The correct answer is Elephantiasis.

Key Points

• Elephantiasis, also known as lymphatic filariasis, is caused by parasitic worms, including the hookworm species.
• The disease is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes carrying filarial larvae, which can develop into adult worms in the human lymphatic system.
• Hookworms, like Necator americanus and Ancyclostoma duodenale, can contribute to the disease by directly affecting the skin and lymphatic tissues.
• Common symptoms include swelling of limbs, genitals, or other body parts, leading to a thickened, "elephant-like" skin appearance.
• This condition is classified as a neglected tropical disease (NTD) by the World Health Organization (WHO), with an emphasis on prevention and mass drug administration in endemic areas.

Additional Information

• Hookworms:
  • Hookworms are parasitic nematodes that infect the small intestine of humans and animals.
  • They are transmitted through contaminated soil or direct skin contact with infected larvae.
  • Hookworm infection can cause anemia, malnutrition, and stunted growth, particularly in children.
• Lymphatic Filariasis:
  • This condition results from infection with thread-like filarial worms, mainly Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori.
  • The adult worms reside in the lymphatic vessels, causing blockages and chronic swelling.
• Preventive Measures:
  • Mass drug administration (MDA) of antiparasitic medications like albendazole and ivermectin is a key strategy in endemic regions.
  • Use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets (ITNs) and improved sanitation practices are critical for controlling the spread.
• WHO Global Program:
  • The World Health Organization's Global Program to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) aims to eradicate the disease as a public health problem by 2030.
  • Community awareness campaigns and collaborations with healthcare systems are integral to achieving this goal.