Editorial: The global programme to eliminate lymphatic filariasis

Ten years ago, no one foresaw that in the year 2000 there would be a Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) that is already 2 year s old, active in 18 of the SO endemic countries, and operating under a whol ly new paradigm in public health - a paradigm affirming that public/private sector partnerships are essential in sharing both responsibilities and res ponses to global health problems. What has driven the LF Elimination Progra mme to this point? Where it is now headed? What will be required to sustain its momentum? What will its impact be? These are the issues addressed belo w.