MOBILIZATION FOR MASS-DISTRIBUTION OF IVERMECTIN IN EASTERN NIGERIA

Onchocerciasis constitutes a major public health problem in Nigeria, with approximately 40 million people at risk of infection. In 1988, a Tropical Diseases Research-funded project began, that was aimed at drastically reducing the high prevalence of the disease in Achi, south eastern Nigeria, through the active participation of the eligible population. This was done through the mass distribution of ivermectin. The community was mobilized through meetings with various leaders in Achi, and through the provision of health information and education to the entire community. The active participation of the community in the mass distribution of ivermectin involved both the utilization of the services provided and the contribution of resources towards the project's implementation. More than 70% of the eligible population took the drug. Resource inputs by the community included free labour and time donated by volunteers, and the donation of food and infrastructure, although there were no direct financial contributions. The community also nominated some of their number to train as field workers to assist in field surveys and to provide health information and education to the community. Factors contributing to the success of community participation in the project, which may be of relevance to similar projects elsewhere, are also discussed.