Human onchocerciasis in Africa
Boussinesq, M.
Medecine Tropicale Revue du Corps de Sante Colonial 57(4): 389-400
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0025-682X PMID: 9612783 Document Number: 477306
Before the 1980s, the only available method for the control of onchocerciasis (Onchocerca volvulus) was through the elimination of vector (Simulium) populations. This strategy was used with considerable success in the Onchocerciasis Control Programme (OCP) in West Africa. The discovery of ivermectin, the first effective drug suitable for mass treatment of onchocerciasis, led to a revival in international interest not only in fundamental research but also in the development of new strategies to control onchocerciasis in countries outside the OCP area. In this review, the current parasitological, clinical, epidemiological and diagnostic aspects of onchocerciasis are presented.