Which characteristic does NOT describe filariasis?

Filariasis is a disease caused by infection with filarial worms, specifically lymphatic filariasis caused by species like Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori. One characteristic of this disease is that it can affect anyone, regardless of the strength of their immune system. Although individuals with weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to a variety of infections or may have more severe manifestations, filariasis can occur in healthy individuals as well.

The inflammatory responses due to filarial infections are not limited to those with compromised immune systems. The inflammatory reactions can indeed affect various systems in the body, including the lymphatic system, and while there may be complications that arise from these reactions, the disease does not discriminate based on immune status.

In contrast, the other characteristics associated with filariasis are accurate. It can indeed lead to significant inflammatory reactions in various tissues, including cardiac muscle and the brain, and it may contribute to conditions like fatal encephalitis in rare cases. Additionally, it is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, which is a well-documented route of transmission for these parasitic worms.