The NGDO Co-ordination Group for Onchocerciasis Control

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Tropical Medicine
• Global Health

Background:

• Non-governmental development organizations (NGDOs) have been instrumental in the mass distribution of Mectizan for onchocerciasis control since Merck & Co., Inc. began donations.
• In 2006, NGDOs supported the treatment of over 62 million individuals for onchocerciasis.
• The Community-Directed Treatment with Ivermectin (CDTI) strategy is widely adopted in Africa for drug distribution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the pivotal role of NGDOs in onchocerciasis control through Mectizan distribution.
• To emphasize the adaptability of the CDTI strategy for integration with other public health interventions.
• To acknowledge the pioneering efforts of NGDOs in expanding health services beyond onchocerciasis treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of the historical involvement of NGDOs in Mectizan donation programs.
• Analysis of the implementation and reach of the CDTI strategy in Africa.
• Documentation of integrated health activities pioneered by NGDOs.

Main Results:

• NGDOs have significantly contributed to onchocerciasis control, treating over 62 million people in 2006.
• The CDTI strategy has proven highly effective and suitable for integration with other health programs.
• NGDOs have successfully integrated services such as eye care, malaria prevention, neglected tropical disease control, and vitamin-A supplementation.

Conclusions:

• NGDOs are essential partners in global health, particularly in managing onchocerciasis and related diseases.
• The integration of various health services through CDTI presents opportunities for enhanced public health outcomes.
• Addressing new challenges arising from expanded activities requires collaborative efforts among all stakeholders, with NGDOs playing a key role.