Filariasis in melanesia: Observations at Rabaul relating to incidence and vectors

The following microfilaria rates were recorded: 427 adult males from various districts of New Guinea and adjacent islands … … … 19·4 per cent. 131 adults, both sexes, Makada Island … … 35·1 ; 188 adults, both sexes, Matty Island … … 32·9 ; The incidence of elephantiasis was low. The suggestion that non-periodic filaria exists in New Guinea is discussed and shown to be without foundation. Some data supporting the accepted view that the filaria in this region is nocturnal are recorded. Some unpublished findings relative to vectors of W. bancrofti in the Rabaul district are given. The evidence supporting the incrimination of anophelines, and in particular A. punctulatus farauti, as the chief vectors in Melanesia, is discussed. Anopheles annulipes was shown to be a good experimental host of W. bancrofti.