Monitoring and evaluation of lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis in six endermic communitites in Ogun State South West Nigeria

Abstract

In Africa Onchocerciasis and Lymphatic filariasis  have been reported as co-endemic diseases  in certain  countries. Certain communities in Ogun State has been reported to be co-endemic for both diseases. Mass Drug Administration of medicines  had used Aldendazole and Ivermectine as  the drug of choice for the prevention and control of Oncocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis in these endemic communities  over  the years in Ogun State. This study aims  to assess the  current prevalence and intensity of  these disease in endemic areas of Ogun State and to determine an effective  onsight diagnostic tool that can  facilitate  assessment  of disease prevalence in endemic communities in Ogun State so as to meet the  Global   mandate of 2030 by Global Program for Elimination of Lymphatic filariasis . Oncho/LF IgG4 biplex was used to assess the prevalence of Lymphatic filariasis and Oncocerciasis in two Local Government Areas of Ogun State. The consenting participants were made up of a total population of 526 individuals who were, 250 males and 266 females after filling informed consent form.  This individuals were 103 persons from Ajilete, 69 from Oke-Ella and 97 from Eredo all in Yewa South Local Government Area while the remaining voluntary participants were 124 from Oke- Ella, 64 from Alapoti and 69 from Igbesa in Ad0-Odo/Ota Local Government Areas of Ogun State.  Overall prevalence of infection for Lymphatic filariasis was (1.14%). Prevalence of Infection was highest in Igbesa (4.4%), followed by Alapoti (3.3%) and lastly by Eredo (1.03%). Others recorded 0.0% prevalence of infection. For Oncocerciasis total prevalence rate of infection was 0.09%  with only Eredo which had a  prevalence infection rate of 1.03%. Result revealed that Onchocerciasis in this region had reached the treachhold level of elimination while Lymphatic filariasis is yet to be so reported. There is need for continuity and intensive  administration of Mass Drug Administration of Medicine, as possible  eventual elimination seems in view.