Onchocerciasis

Onchocerciasis (also known as River Blindness) is caused by a parasitic worm and is spread by the bite of an infected blackfly. Multiple infectious bites are necessary for a person to get the disease. Infected persons may not have symptoms, but a skin rash, eye lesions and/or bumps under the skin can occur. Eye lesions can progress to blindness.

The disease is found most frequently in rural agricultural villages that are located near rapidly flowing streams. Travellers should take precautions against blackfly and other insect bites. Risk to casual travellers is low.

Risk of Onchocerciasis is present in the following countries:



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