The Anti-Filariasis Campaign and the Regional Anti-Filariasis Units conduct routine screening programmes in the endemic districts in a stepwise manner. Initially, the coastal areas are screened, and it will continue to the inland of the endemic districts. Night blood film is the main diagnostic method used in Sri Lanka. This is carried out by Public Health Field Officers by visiting houses in the selected area at night between 8.00 pm to 11.00 pm.
There are Night Blood Film clinics as well, stationed at pre-planned venues between 8.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. which provide services to local community and immigrant workers who are referred or willing to screen themselves. The campaign also carries out antigen and antibody tests for filariasis where necessary depending on the availability of the test.
If a person is found to be positive, treatment and advice will be provided by a medical officer or the respective regional medical officer will visit the person’s home and will provide treatment and advice.