Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2023-07-13
Dracunculosis, also known as Guinea worm disease, is a parasitic infection caused by the nematode Dracunculus medinensis. It is characterized by the emergence of long, thread-like worms from painful skin ulcers, primarily in rural areas with limited access to clean water and sanitation. The prevalence of Dracunculosis has significantly decreased over the years due to extensive global efforts for eradication.
What is the prevalence of Dracunculosis?
Prevalence of Dracunculosis: how many people are affected worldwide, differences by sex and region, with sources.
Dracunculosis, also known as Guinea worm disease, is a parasitic infection caused by the nematode Dracunculus medinensis. It is characterized by the emergence of long, thread-like worms from painful skin ulcers, primarily in rural areas with limited access to clean water and sanitation.
The prevalence of Dracunculosis has significantly decreased over the years due to extensive global efforts for eradication. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 1986, there were an estimated 3.5 million cases reported in 20 countries. However, as of 2020, only two countries, Chad and South Sudan, reported cases of Dracunculosis.
This remarkable reduction in prevalence is primarily attributed to the implementation of preventive measures such as water filtration, health education, and the use of larvicide to control the parasite's intermediate host, copepods. The Carter Center, along with other organizations, has played a crucial role in leading the eradication campaign.
While the prevalence of Dracunculosis has significantly declined, efforts to completely eradicate the disease continue. The WHO aims to achieve global eradication, making Dracunculosis the second human disease to be eradicated after smallpox.
