[Extent of endemic yaws in Upper Volta in 1981]

This yaws investigation has been realized in the South West of Upper-Volta, in 1981, in areas around Gaoua, Niangoloko, N'Dorola; this investigation concerns 15 villages, chosen at random, and a sample of 1540 persons older than 4 years. The clinical prevalence (infectious cases) is 0.6%; the higher prevalence is observed around Gaoua (1.5%). Infectious contagious lesions are found especially in the 5-14 years old group. This investigation shows a low prevalence (under 5%) of active yaws. The serological prevalence (Kline-test) is 5.8% and we observe also around Gaoua the highest prevalence (8%). Periodical screening surveys of the population, during years 1952-1957, had shown a low prevalence of yaws, with a medium prevalence of yaws around Gaoua. Yaws treatment campaigns had been realized from 1957 to 1960 in South-West of Upper-Volta with very good results (prevalence: 0.06% - 1960). Now, in 1981, we note a resurgence of endemic foci, especially around Gaoua, from where the infection is spreading again, this, threatening the gains made by previous mass treatment campaigns. Taking in account the present result, it is necessary to treat contagious cases and contact sick persons (selective mass treatment or S.M.T., recommended in areas of low prevalence, by the WHO scientific group on treponemal infections).