Background: Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a vector-borne neglected tropical disease that remains endemic in several regions of Malaysia, particularly in Sabah. The predominant causative parasite is Brugia malayi. Tuaran District had no previously recorded cases of LF until 2023. However, a sudden emergence of 40 confirmed LF cases in 2024 raised concerns regarding undetected transmission and limitations in local surveillance as well as early response efforts. This study aims to describe the sociodemographic characteristics and spatial analysis of LF cases in Tuaran District, Sabah, from 2020 to 2024. It aims to outline the public health response and preventive measures implemented during the surge in the number of confirmed cases.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary data from the Vector Control Unit, Tuaran District Health Office, covering a 5-year period from 2020 to 2024. Data sources included case notifications, field investigation records, community screening outcomes, and entomological investigation findings.
Results: The first LF case was detected in 2023. Active case detection involved 394 residents across four localities, resulting in 38 individuals testing positive. In Tuaran, LF cases were more common among adults aged ≥40 years and those with outdoor jobs. Up till 2024, only 43.9% of positive cases received treatment. Spatial analysis shows LF cases clustering around villages within the Tamparuli sub-district, particularly where the landscape is dominated by plantations and forest margins. Entomological investigation at three sites showed no active vector presence. Public health interventions focused on morbidity management, continuous case surveillance, and targeted community health education.
Conclusions: LF remains a significant public-health burden. Sabah still has endemic implementation units and sporadic cases, underscoring the need for more resources, consistent access to diagnostics and treatment, stronger community entomological surveillance, and better integration of local actions with national strategies.
