Dracunculiasis in Igbon, Oyo State, Nigeria.

Studies conducted between 1978 and 1979 to determine the prevalence and site of guinea-worm transmission in Igbon, Nigeria, showed that in less than 5 years of the introduction of dracunculiasis into this community, the infection rate had reached over 75% among the economically active group. Multiple infections were rampant and the frequency of occurrence of severe incapacitation was correspondingly high as reflected by prolonged and excessive absenteeism from schools, inability to engage in farming, trading and domestic work. The peak of transmission occurred in November which coincided with the retreat of rain and the abundance of Thermocyclops nigerianus in the two adjacent ponds where active transmission occurred. While ignorance was primarily responsible for annual transmission, secondary infection resulting from unsanitary methods of local treatment, seemed to be the major cause of prolonged and severe incapacitation.