Lessons learnt from the intensified campaign against smallpox in India and their possible applicability to other health programmes, with particular reference to eradication of dracunculiasis
Sharma, M.I.
Journal of Communicable Diseases 12(2): 59-64
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0019-5138 PMID: 6458633 Document Number: 158731
The successful global programme for the eradication of smallpox mainly involved searching for cases and executing containment measures to liquidate the foci so found. The application of this approach to the eradication of Dracunculus medinensis is discussed. After foci are discovered, the water sources of infection should be identified and treated (or human access should be prevented, provided an alternative safe water source is available). These measures should be combined with a vigorous health education campaign.