This bench aid provides detailed instruction on the proper use of the Immunochromatographic Test (ICT) used for the detection of Wuchereria bancrofti antigen. It can be used as a training guide or serve as a convenient reference for anyone using the ICT in lymphatic filariasis elimination programs.

These Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were designed specifically for the Gates Phase 2 studies and have been revised from the Gates Phase 1 studies’ SOPs with the recommendations from participating investigators from different regions and institutions. The Phase 2 SOPs are for operational research purposes only and are subject to change for future studies and/or programs. Any suggestions for improvements are welcome.

Phase 2 Survey 2 - Protocol Overview

Phase 2 Survey 2 - Full Document

Phase 2 Survey 2 - CDC Import Permit

Phase 2 Survey 1 - Full Document

These Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were used in the Gates Phase 1 operational research studies to identify the most effective diagnostic tools available for lymphatic filariasis.

A meeting was held on the role of “xenomonitoring”, or entomologic monitoring of infections, in programmatic applications toward LF elimination on December 20-21, 2011 in Atlanta, GA. Relevant meeting documents are posted below.

Meeting Agenda

DEC Salt Manual

We are pleased to share this protocol developed by the LF Support Center to facilitate cost analyses of the mass drug administration component of LF elimination programs. The protocol was developed to collect data systematically in a number of countries to provide comparable results across programs. The protocol presents general guidance for developing and conducting a cost analysis, and it is expected that each country will adapt the protocol to reflect its own program. The individual country results and multi-country results are vital to program planners and others for use in advocacy, program accountability, and program planning.

Cost analysis allows for informed budgeting of limited resources for the greatest impact. The results of cost analyses of LF programs can provide information for government policymakers, program managers, and LF advocates in countries with existing programs and for those interested in setting up LF programs, as well as, private, bilateral and multilateral donors. Collecting data about costs and analyzing it in the context of program activities provides information about efficiency in achieving results and program sustainability. Cost data from LF programs can project future program needs and stimulate the development of new and better ways of carrying out activities.

The generic protocol guides users through the steps of framing the analysis, identifying costs, collecting and organizing data, analyzing data and presenting results. The generic protocol has two sections, the handbook (the Microsoft Word document above) and the worksheets. The set of blank pre-formatted Excel worksheets with embedded formulas for organizing and analyzing data is available on request from gaelf@emory.edu.

Guidelines for Meeting Participants in MS Word
Guidelines for Meeting Arrangers in MS Word
Reimbursement Form in MS Excel

A 16-page brochure detailing LF, the Global Alliance, the successes and the challenges of the program to eliminate LF is available as a PDF in English and French.

To request copies of the brochure, please contact us at gaelf@emory.edu.

Annually over 100 million women will be treated with albendazole and Mectizan® through national LF elimination programs. The immediate clinical effects of albendazole and ivermectin extend beyond the prevention of LF and include the treatment of intestinal parasite infections. This booklet highlights the research documenting the significant benefits of treating intestinal parasites, such as lower mortality from severe anemia, lower incidence of low-birth-weight babies and better earning capacity for mothers. These benefits come at no additional cost to the health system or individual since albendazole and ivermectin are distributed as mainstay drugs of the LF elimination program.

Annually, more than 200 million children will be treated for intestinal parasites through national LF Elimination programs. The benefits from using albendazole and ivermectin to eliminate LF are multiplied for the millions of children also at-risk or suffering from intestinal parasites. This booklet highlights the research documenting the significant benefits of treating intestinal parasites. These benefits come at no additional cost to the health system or individual since albendazole and ivermectin are distributed as mainstay drugs of the LF elimination program.

Developed by the Global Alliance, this toolkit was given to participants at fundraising workshops in Atlanta and Manila. It is now available in English and French here on the internet for downloading documents, journal articles and pictures including background information about LF and the global program, advocacy strategies, and fundraising guidelines.