Loa loa: description, characteristics and methods of combating the parasite
Loa loa is a species of parasitic nematode belonging to the order Spirurida, family Filariidae. They are the causative agents of human loiasis, a disease also known as “Calabar tumor” or “African eye worm”.
One of the key factors that distinguishes Loa loa from other nematode species is that they use horse flies of the genus Chrysops as a vector and intermediate host. It is found in Central and Western Africa, including countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea.
Because loiasis causes severe pain and can lead to visual impairment, this microorganism is a serious threat to public health in these regions, especially for people who are outdoors every day.
Symptoms of the disease usually include headache, photophobia, eye discomfort, and pain in the arms, legs, and chest. If the disease lasts for a long time, damage to the retina of the eye may occur, which can lead to visual impairment.
Fortunately, loiasis can be successfully treated with medications such as ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine, and albendazole. These drugs can kill microorganisms and reduce the number of microfilariae in the blood.
However, in addition to treatment, disease prevention is also important. This can be achieved by using mosquito nets and protective clothing to reduce the likelihood of being bitten by horseflies, and by eradicating insect vectors.
Overall, loiasis is a serious health problem in some parts of Africa, but with the right prevention and treatment measures, control of this parasite can be successful.
Loa-loa, filariasis (F) is a group of vector-borne infections caused by round helminths negative. Nemathelminthes, fam. Filarioidea from the class Secernentea, belonging to the order Spirurida (class Nematoda), characterized by an extreme diversity of pathogenic biological properties. Loa-loi - F. bancrofti L., Nigerian Calabar fever, causative agent of Californian or Central American fever, less common is F. neglecta Kutschera, causative agent of F. brazilian
Loa loa is a species of parasitic nematode in the family Filariidae that infects humans. These parasites are transmitted through the bite of horseflies and are currently one of the most common infections transmitted by blood-sucking insects in the world. Although the disease caused by Loa has long been known