NIGER ELIMINATES ONCHOCERCIASIS

PRELIMS BITS

1. Introduction
   • Niger becomes the first African nation to eliminate onchocerciasis (river blindness), recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO).
   • Joins Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, and Guatemala in achieving this milestone.
2. About Onchocerciasis
   • Caused by a parasitic worm and transmitted through the bites of infected blackflies.
   • Primarily affects skin and eyes, leading to severe skin conditions and potential blindness.
   • Historically a major public health issue in Africa, with over 99% of cases occurring in 31 countries.
3. Niger’s Battle Against Onchocerciasis
   • Niger’s fight began over 50 years ago, with 500,000 people infected or at risk in the 1970s.
   • The prevalence of blindness was around 5%.
   • Joined the Onchocerciasis Control Programme (OCP) in 1975 with ten other West African nations.
   • By 2002, prevalence reduced to just 0.02%.
4. Strategies for Elimination
   • Beyond prevalence reduction, key strategies included:
     • Mapping high transmission areas.
     • Mass drug distributions.
     • Training community health workers.
     • Active participation of local communities in understanding and combating the disease.