The interruption of transmission of onchocerciasis in Kaduna, Kebbi and Zamfara states, Nigeria: another milestone achievement

Summary

More than 40 million people live in onchocerciasis-endemic areas in Nigeria. This paper presents the serological and entomological evidence for the interruption of the transmission of onchocerciasis in Kaduna, Kebbi and Zamfara states.

The assessments in each of the states followed at least 19 years of mass drug administration with ivermectin. The authors conclude that 6.2 million people no longer need ivermectin for onchocerciasis.

This article is part of a special supplement in International Health focusing on the Ascend neglected tropical disease programme in West and Central Africa. You can access the other articles in the supplement on the International Health website.