Knowledge and beliefs about causes, transmission, treatment and control of human onchocerciasis in rural communities in south western Nigeria

Descriptive and quantitative information on onchocerciasis transmission and control were collected using focus group discussions and structured questionnaire to determine what changes if introduced, could upset the established human–vector–parasite relationship in limiting transmission. People’s knowledge of cause of infection and transmission was very poor. Of the 1012 people interviewed, only 3% related the clinical manifestations of onchocerciasis to Simulium bites. Thirty six percent had no idea of the cause of infection while the rest attributed the clinical symptoms of the disease to many other causes. People’s knowledge of the current treatment and control measures was also poor. However an impressive knowledge of the daily and seasonal distribution of Simulium flies was observed. The study identifies the need for health education campaigns aimed at relating the clinical manifestations of onchocerciasis to Simulium bites. This could help people in taking personal protective measures and seeking appropriate treatment.