Context-

Recently, the African country, Niger, achieved a historic feat by becoming the first country in Africa to completely eradicate onchocerciasis (river blindness). This fact has been confirmed by the World Health Organization (WHO). Niger has completely stopped the spread of the Onchocerca volvulus parasite, which is the main cause of onchocerciasis disease.

About Onchocerciasis (River Blindness):

Onchocerciasis is a parasitic disease transmitted through the bites of infected black flies, which breed in fast-flowing rivers. It is a major public health concern, particularly in Africa, where 99% of the at-risk population resides.

·        The disease causes severe itching, skin rashes, discoloration, visual impairment, and, in its most severe form, permanent blindness.

·        It is the second leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide, after trachoma.

·        Before Niger's success, the WHO had confirmed the elimination of onchocerciasis in four countries: Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, and Mexico. With this milestone, Niger becomes the fifth country globally and the first in Africa to eliminate the disease.

Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)

Onchocerciasis is classified as a neglected tropical disease (NTD), a group of 20 conditions that disproportionately affect impoverished populations in tropical and subtropical regions.

·        NTDs are caused by a variety of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and toxins.

·        Other examples of NTDs include dengue, chikungunya, rabies, leishmaniasis, leprosy, and lymphatic filariasis.

·        These diseases often have devastating health impacts on vulnerable communities, contributing to cycles of poverty and marginalization.

Global Efforts against NTDs

·        India has made significant strides in eliminating certain NTDs, such as guinea worm, trachoma, and yaws.

·        Global initiatives, including the Kigali Declaration on NTDs (2022) and the London Declaration on NTDs (2012), have been instrumental in advancing efforts to eradicate these diseases.

·        The World Health Organization (WHO) has released a mobile application called "Skin NTDs App" which is designed to assist frontline healthcare workers in diagnosing skin-related neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) through image recognition and decision support features

·        Additionally, World NTD Day, observed annually on January 30, serves to raise awareness and promote collective action against these diseases.

Conclusion:

Niger’s achievement represents a significant step forward in the global fight against neglected tropical diseases. It highlights the power of sustained interventions and international collaboration in improving public health.