2. RESEARCH DIRECTLY LINKED WITH GPELF ACTIVITIES (OPERATIONAL RESEARCH)

1) Develop effective, practical strategy for defining in field settings the areas and individuals with levels of L. loa microfilaremia so high as to be dangerous if MDA for concurrent LF were to be initiated (novel tool; novel approach with available tools), 2) Define the comparative accuracy of available diagnostics (antigen, antibody, DNA) and strategies for monitoring the progress of LF elimination programs and for deciding both when to stop MDAs and how to initiate surveillance to detect potential recrudescence; a) involves determining limits of sensitivity and specificity of available tests, b) requires longitudinal studies using all diagnostic tools concurrently and in both highand low-prevalence areas where LF elimination programs are underway, 3) Take advantage of new technologies to improve userfriendliness and efficiency of the LF diagnostics currently available (e.g., isothermal polymerase chain reaction [PCR], multiplex antibody or PCR kits, use of oral fluids or urine for diagnostic tests), 4) Validate sampling strategies for testing both vector and human populations for LF infection or exposure to infection.