Project: Cluster randomized community-based trial of annual versus biannual single-dose Ivermectin plus Albendazole against Wuchereria bancrofti infection in human and mosquito populations

Acronym	Twice yearly treatment for the control of LF (Reference Number: TMA 2015 CDF - 976)
Duration	01/04/2017 - 31/03/2020
Project Topic	Introduction: The Global Program for the Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) has been in operation sing the year 2000, with the aim of eliminating the disease by the year 2020, following 5-6 rounds of effective annual Mass Drug Administration (MDA). The treatment regimen is Ivermectin (IVM) in combination with Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) or Albendazole (ALB). In Ghana, MDA has been undertaken since 2001. While the disease has been eliminated in many areas, transmission has persisted in some implementation units that had experienced 15 or more rounds of MDA. Alternative intervention strategies, including twice yearly MDA and sleeping under insecticidal nets have significantly accelerated transmission interruption in some settings of high transmission intensity. Thus, it is evident that new intervention strategies could eliminate residual infection in areas of persistent transmission and speed up the LF elimination process. This study therefore seeks to test the hypothesis that biannual treatment of LF endemic communities will accelerate interruption of LF transmission. Methods and analysis: Two cluster randomized trials will be implemented in LF endemic communities in Ghana. The interventions will be yearly or twice-yearly MDA delivered to entire endemic communities. Allocation to study group will be by clusters identified using the prevalence of LF. Clusters will be randomised to one of two groups: receiving either (1) annual treatment with IVM+ALB; (2) annual MDA with IVM +ALB, followed by an additional MDA 6 months later. The primary outcome measure is the prevalence of LF infection, assessed by four cross-sectional surveys. Entomological assessments will also be undertaken to evaluate the transmission intensity of the disease in the study clusters. Costs and cost-effectiveness will be evaluated. Among a random subsample of participants, microfilaria prevalence will be assessed longitudinally. A nested process evaluation, using semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and a stakeholder analysis, will investigate the community acceptability, feasibility and scale-up of each delivery system.
Network	EDCTP2
Call	Training and Mobility Awards: Career Development Fellowships

Project partner

Number	Name	Role	Country
1	Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research	Coordinator	Ghana