Control of onchocerciasis in Nzerem-Ikpem, Nigeria: baseline prevalence and mass distribution of ivermectin.

Data from a survey of endemicity of human onchocerciasis and subsequent mass distribution of ivermectin to control this disease in 9 villages of the Nzerem-Ikpem community in the Imo River basin of Nigeria are presented. Of the 1126 persons examined, 46.2% were positive for skin microfilarial, 29.2% for leopard skin, 34.2% for palpable subcutaneous nodules and 14.8% for various types of onchodermatitis. Ivermectin was distributed to a total of 1934 persons living in 233 households. The treatment coverage rate was 51%. 12.8% of those treated reported various mild reactions to the microfilaricide. Implications for community participation and long term sustenance of mass distribution programs are discussed.