Mapping of lymphatic filariasis in Benue State, Nigeria

An epidemiological mapping was undertaken from December, 2004 to February, 2005 with the aim of determining the prevalence of Wuchereria bancrofti in 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Benue State, Nigeria. A total of 1,830 persons aged 20 years and above were screened for circulating filarial antigen (CFA) using immuno-chromatographic (ICT) whole blood tests. An overall CFA prevalence of 6.5% was recorded in 65% of 20 communities from the 18 LGAs. The results indicate that lymphatic filariasis is widely distributed in the state. Prevalence of infection was significantly (