Epidemiological assessment of the distribution and endemicity of guinea worm infection in Asa, Kwara State, Nigeria.

An investigation was made in 1983 to determine the distribution and endemicity of dracunculiasis in Asa, Kwara State, Nigeria. The findings revealed that the disease was widespread and highly prevalent. The house to house survey conducted in 11 of the 20 villages where recent cases had been identified gave an overall prevalence of 53% during the peak period of infection. At least two out of every five residents in each village had an active infection. More adults had clinical dracunculiasis than children (P less than 0.001) but the disease showed no preference for sex (P greater than 0.05). Factors responsible for the high endemicity and the increasing spread of the infection, for the disparity in the distribution pattern of the infection in different villages, and the impact and future of the disease in the area are highlighted.