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USAID

Neglected Tropical Diseases
The NTD Initiative
The Neglected Tropical Diseases Initiative

Onchocerciasis

Onchocerciasis, also called river blindness, is an infection caused by the parasite Onchocerca volvulus (O. volvulus) (worm), which is spread by the bite of an infected blackfly (Simulium). The disease itself is not a direct cause of mortality, but the socioeconomic consequences of onchocerciasis are profound.1;2 In 2002, the global disease burden was estimated to be 0.95 millions disability-adjusted life years. Onchocerciasis-induced blindness is associated with a life expectancy that is at least 10 years shorter than that of non-blind individuals in the same area.3;4 Unfortunately, the consequences of onchocerciasis extend beyond the individual and affect the family, the community, and the country.4;5


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References

  1. Kirkwood B, Smith P, Marshall T, et al: Relationships between mortality, visual acuity and microfilarial load in the area of the Onchocerciasis Control Programme. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 77:862, 1983.
  2. Little MP, Breitling LP, Basanez MG, et al: Association between microfilarial load and excess mortality in Onchocerciasis: An Epidemiological study. Lancet 363:1514, 2004.
  3. Hoerauf A., Buttner DW, Adjei O, et al: Onchocerciasis. BMJ 326:207, 2003.
  4. Dadzie KY, Remme J, Rolland A, et al: Ocular Onchocerciasis and intensity of the infection in the community. II. West African rainforest foci of the vector Simulium yahense. Trop Med Parasitol 40:348, 1989.
  5. Dadzie KY, Remme J, Backer RH, et al: Ocular Onchocerciasis and intensity of the infection in the community. III. West African rainforest foci of the vector Simulium sanctipauli. Trop Med Parasitol 41:376, 1990.