Avisek Patra¹ , Anupam Ghosh¹ , Biplab Mandal¹

1 Department of Zoology, Bankura Christian College, Bankura, West Bengal
2 Department of Zoology, Vidyasagar University; Midnapore, West Bengal
Author    Correspondence author
Journal of Mosquito Research, 2026, Vol. 16, No. 5   
Received: 30 Aug., 2026    Accepted: 10 Oct., 2026    Published: 03 Nov., 2026

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) remains a major neglected tropical disease affecting populations in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly among economically vulnerable communities. The disease is caused by filarial nematodes, including Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori, and is associated with chronic conditions such as lymphoedema, hydrocele, and elephantiasis, which lead to long-term disability, social stigma, and reduced quality of life. Globally, more than 51 million people are estimated to be infected, with India accounting for a substantial proportion of the disease burden. Within India, West Bengal is recognized as an endemic region where several districts continue to report ongoing transmission despite sustained control efforts.

This review synthesizes available literature to examine the epidemiology, transmission dynamics, and control strategies of LF in West Bengal. Particular attention is given to the role of vector ecology, environmental conditions, and socio-economic factors in maintaining transmission. In addition to qualitative synthesis, the review incorporates a quantitative assessment using district-level data to explore the relationship between selected determinants-such as poverty, literacy, and programme coverage-and microfilaria prevalence. The findings indicate that while overall prevalence has declined, residual transmission persists, particularly in areas characterized by socio-economic disadvantage and inadequate environmental management.

The effectiveness of interventions, including mass drug administration (MDA) and integrated vector management (IVM), is influenced by variable compliance, surveillance gaps, and implementation challenges. The persistence of infection despite long-term interventions highlights the need for a more integrated approach that combines biomedical strategies with improvements in sanitation, housing, and community participation. Strengthening surveillance systems and incorporating evidence-based planning are essential for identifying residual hotspots and guiding targeted interventions.

In conclusion, sustainable elimination of Lymphatic filariasis in West Bengal will depend on a coordinated strategy that addresses both the biological and socio-economic determinants of transmission. A multidisciplinary and community-focused approach will be critical for achieving long-term interruption of transmission and contributing to national elimination goals.

Lymphatic filariasis; West Bengal; Wuchereria bancrofti; Epidemiology; Transmission dynamics; Vector control; Elimination programme