The World Health Organization (WHO) has received reports of three confirmed human cases of dracunculiasis (guinea-worm disease) during the first quarter of this year (1 January – 30 April 2018). All three cases are from Chad and are reported to have been contained.
The programme continues to implement active surveillance activities covering more than 2600 villages in endemic areas of Chad and these are being complemented by an enhanced communications campaign to raise the level of awareness among populations in affected areas.
With support from The Carter Center, Chad launched an enhanced communication campaign in the capital, N’Djamena, in July 2017 to improve awareness of the cash reward for reporting guinea-worm infections, promote early detection and intensify health education about prevention.
The National Guinea-worm Eradication Programme received reports of 1366 rumours of suspected human cases during the first quarter of 2018, indicating a relatively heightened level of awareness and responsiveness among villagers.
During the same period, the number of infections in dogs increased (from 201, compared with 140 in 2017). In all, there were 846 rumours of dog infections. WHO strongly recommends the application of the cyclopicide (Abate) to all “eligible” ponds and water surfaces in and around the endemic villages and affected areas.
Status in other two endemic countries
Ethiopia reported 15 human cases in 2017 and has reported zero human cases during the first quarter of 2018. The country’s programme detected only one dog infection.
Mali has reported zero human cases for almost 29 months and continues to implement surveillance activities despite the security challenge.
The goal of eradicating dracunculiasis can be achieved if countries where the disease is endemic implement comprehensive vector control interventions, maintain robust surveillance and disease awareness, case containment strategies and apply prompt control measures.