Human lymphatic filariasis is caused mainly by Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi and Brugia timori. Of the estimated 90.2 million people infected, more than 90% have bancroftian and less than 10% brugian filariasis. The distribution and transmission of the disease are closely associated with socioeconomic and behavioural factors in endemic populations. Urban W. bancrofti infection, as seen in South-East Asia, is related to poor urban sanitation, which leads to intense breeding of Culex quiquefasciatus, the principal vector. Rural strains of W. bancrofti are transmitted primarily by Anopheles spp. and Aedes spp. mosquitoes. Brugian filariasis is mainly a rural disease transmitted by Mansonia, Anopheles and Aedes spp. mosquitoes. The periodic form of B. malayi is principally a human parasite, whereas the subperiodic form is zoonotically transmitted in some countries. The control of filariasis has relied on chemotherapy, vector control and reduction of human-vector contact. Although eradication of W. bancrofti and periodic B. malayi can be achieved, it is possible only to reduce transmission of zoonotic subperiodic B. malayi in some areas. A rational approach to control should consider ecological, socioeconomic and behavioural factors and, where feasible, integrate control programmes into the delivery system for primary health care.