The Lingering Struggle to Cure Elephantiasis

Date: October 29, 2025

Description: Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) — or elephantiasis — is a mosquito-borne parasitic disease that affects millions in tropical regions. While often silent at first, chronic LF can lead to disfiguring swelling, disability, pain, and profound social stigma. Intended audience: Patients, medical professionals, policy makers Key takeaways for attendees: What exactly is LF and how does it damage the lymphatic system? Why has controlling LF proven so difficult? What strategies exist today — and why are they not enough? Learn how LF disrupts the lymphatic system, the barriers limiting current control efforts, and the global strategies underway to eliminate this devastating disease.

About the speaker: Ramaswamy Kalyanasundaram, PhD is Assistant Dean for Research and Head of the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford. He also serves as Professor of Microbiology and Immunology and holds the Michael L. and Susan M. Glasser Endowed Professorship of Rural Health Professions Education and Research. Dr. Kalyanasundaram earned his degree in veterinary medicine in India, completed his PhD in parasite immunology at the University of Calgary, and pursued postdoctoral training in immunology at Cornell University in Ithaca. His current research focuses on developing a prophylactic vaccine for lymphatic filariasis.