Abstract

Nigeria bears a substantial burden of onchocerciasis, a disease caused by the filarial worm Onchocerca volvulus and transmitted by blackflies. This report reviews the effectiveness of ivermectin-based mass drug administration (MDA) in treating the disease, highlighting significant reductions in prevalence. However, challenges like uneven treatment coverage, risks of ivermectin resistance, and complications in co-endemic areas with loiasis persist. The report emphasizes the importance of continuous community engagement, exploration of alternative treatments like doxycycline, and integrated health programs to overcome these barriers and work towards the eventual elimination of onchocerciasis in Nigeria.

Keywords:Nigeria bears; Onchocerca volvulus; Infected blackflies