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Guinea worm disease inched closer to eradication

Published: 4th Mar, 2024

Context

Global efforts have dramatically reduced Guinea worm disease from over 3.5 million cases in the 1980s to just six cases in 2023, marking a significant stride towards eradication.

The declining numbers (WHO data)

  • There were more than 3.5 million cases of this disease in the 1980s.
  • The cases dwindled to 14 cases in 2021, 13 in 2022, and just six in 2023.

Where does India stand?

  • India eliminated Guinea worm disease in the late 1990s.
  • Measure taken by India: rigorous campaign of surveillance, water safety interventions, and community education.

What is guinea worm disease?

  • Guinea worm disease, also called dracunculiasis, is caused by a parasite called guinea worm (Dracunculusmedinensis).
    • A parasite is an organism that feeds off another organism to survive.
  • The worm's larvae are carried by water fleas found in stagnant water in ponds, open wells, and freshwater lakes.
  • When someone drinks contaminated water, the larvae can invade their stomach and intestines.
  • Treatment: There is no drug to treat Guinea worm disease and no vaccine to prevent Guinea worm infection.
  • By 2021, only five countries remained endemic – Mali, Chad, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Angola.

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