Effect of Onchocerciasis Elimination Measures on the Incidence of Epilepsy in Maridi, South Sudan

For the first time using a prospective design, our study confirms the results of previous retrospective studies, which found that strengthening onchocerciasis elimination efforts decreases the incidence of epilepsy, including nodding syndrome. Therefore, our study confirms the solid epidemiological link between onchocerciasis and epilepsy.Our study also showed that a community-based "Slash and Clear" vector control method can effectively decrease blackfly biting rates and potentially decrease onchocerciasis transmission.Moreover, our study showed that epilepsy is a major cause of death in onchocerciasis endemic areas with high ongoing transmission.

Inclusion Criteria:entire population of selected villages in Maridi CountyExclusion Criteria:No