[Problems in the investigation of the control of Onchocerca volvulus in Mexico]. 1991

M A Rodríguez-Pérez, and A R Rivas-Alcalá
Investigador del Laboratorio de Entomología Médica, Centro de Investigaciones Ecológicas del Sureste, México.

The treatment and control of onchocerciasis in Mexico has been supported only on the administration of diethylcarbamazine and the removal of adult worms, which are in the onchocercomata. These actions seems to have diminished the prevalence and incidence of blindness in those individuals who are affected by this parasitosis. However, there has not been an important impact on onchocerciasis transmission. The objective of this paper is to critically analyze and discuss subjects related to diagnosis, treatment and control of onchocerciasis transmission in Mexico. Chemical vector control has been successfully achieved in other world regions; however, in Mexico, it has not been fully accepted as part of the integral onchocerciasis control due to several causes. Moreover, there has been few scientific research activities toward the search of new options for vector control. Recently, results of research on ivermectin (a microfilaricide agent) have indicated that this drug is effective and safe for the treatment of onchocerciasis. Additionally, it has been reported that ivermectin has an effect on the onchocerciasis transmission. However, there are several unanswered questions about the efficacy of ivermectin in stopping onchocerciasis transmission. In this report, the main efforts carried out in Mexico against onchocerciasis are analysed and problems related with diagnosis, treatment and control are also discussed. Some parameters for the correct evaluation of onchocerciasis control, with entomological emphasis, are proposed.

UI MeSH Term Description Entries
D008800 Mexico A country in NORTH AMERICA, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, between BELIZE and the UNITED STATES, and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Guatemala and the UNITED STATES.
D009855 Onchocerciasis Infection with nematodes of the genus ONCHOCERCA. Characteristics include the presence of firm subcutaneous nodules filled with adult worms, PRURITUS, and ocular lesions. Onchocerciases
D012106 Research Critical and exhaustive investigation or experimentation, having for its aim the discovery of new facts and their correct interpretation, the revision of accepted conclusions, theories, or laws in the light of newly discovered facts, or the practical application of such new or revised conclusions, theories, or laws. (Webster, 3d ed) Research Priorities,Laboratory Research,Research Activities,Research and Development,Activities, Research,Activity, Research,Development and Research,Priorities, Research,Priority, Research,Research Activity,Research Priority,Research, Laboratory
D004772 Entomology A discipline or occupation concerned with the study of INSECTS, including the biology and the control of insects.
D006801 Humans Members of the species Homo sapiens. Homo sapiens,Man (Taxonomy),Human,Man, Modern,Modern Man

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