Niger has become the first African country to eliminate onchocerciasis, a parasitic disease that can cause blindness. Thanks to years of effort, this public health threat is now gone! A Big Step for Health in Africa.
What is Onchocerciasis?
Also called « river blindness, » this disease is spread by blackfly bites. It affected thousands of people, especially in rural areas. But today, thanks to treatment and prevention campaigns, it is no longer a danger in Niger!
A Team Effort
The Nigerien government, the World Health Organization (WHO), and many partners worked together to distribute medicine and raise awareness. A great example of teamwork for health!
Hope for the Future
Other African countries are now aiming to follow Niger’s lead in fighting onchocerciasis. This victory proves that eliminating tropical diseases is possible with determination and cooperation.