Onchocerciasis

Onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, is a neglected tropical disease caused by the parasite Onchocerca volvulus and spread by the bites of black flies. It is prevalent in Africa, parts of the Middle East and Latin America. Symptoms include intense itching, skin discoloration, swelling and sometimes blindness. If left untreated, the disease can cause significant physical and economic burden to affected individuals and communities. Treatment is available in the form of preventive chemotherapy with the drug ivermectin, and interventions to control the black flies. Improving access to diagnosis and treatment, vector control and other preventive measures are necessary to reduce the impact of this devastating disease.