Helminthic Diseases: Onchocerciasis and Loiasis

Onchocerciasis and loiasis are caused by infection with filarial worms. Severe skin and eye lesions, and blindness are found in onchocerciasis, and the disease is an important public health problem in endemic areas. Loiasis causes Calabar swelling and ‘eye worm,’ whose public health significance is yet to be clarified. Vector control and ivermectin treatment have been used to successfully control or eliminate onchocerciasis, but the risk of severe adverse reactions impedes ivermectin distribution in areas with loiasis. Research has played a key role in optimizing onchocerciasis control. Onchocerciasis is being progressively eliminated and with a macrofilaricide its eradication could be a reality.