Infection with nematodes of the genus dracunculus. One or more worms may be seen at a time, with the legs and feet being the most commonly infected areas. Symptoms include pruritus, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or asthmatic attacks. Below you may find medications used to treat or help with Dracunculiasis. More about Dracunculiasis

Flagyl

Metronidazole

200|400mg

Dracunculiasis FAQ


What is dracunculiasis?

Dracunculiasis, or Guinea worm disease, is a parasitic infection caused by the nematode Dracunculus medinensis.

How do people get infected with dracunculiasis?

People get infected by drinking water contaminated with water fleas carrying Guinea worm larvae.

What are the symptoms of dracunculiasis?

The disease is characterized by the painful emergence of a long, thread-like worm from a blister on the skin.

How is dracunculiasis diagnosed?

The diagnosis of dracunculiasis is primarily based on the characteristic signs and symptoms.

What is the treatment for dracunculiasis?

Treatment involves gradual extraction of the worm from the lesion, along with symptomatic relief and prevention of secondary infections.

Is there a vaccine for dracunculiasis?

There is no vaccine available for dracunculiasis.

Can dracunculiasis be prevented?

Prevention measures include filtering drinking water and providing health education in at-risk communities.

Where is dracunculiasis commonly found?

Dracunculiasis is most commonly found in rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa.

Who is at risk of dracunculiasis?

People living in remote and deprived communities with limited access to safe drinking water are at the highest risk of dracunculiasis.

Is dracunculiasis fatal?

Dracunculiasis is not usually fatal, but it can lead to severe pain, disability, and secondary infections.

What is the global initiative to eradicate dracunculiasis?

The Carter Center and World Health Organization lead the international effort to eradicate dracunculiasis by implementing preventive measures and providing medical aid.

Why is dracunculiasis also called Guinea worm disease?

It is called Guinea worm disease because the larvae of the nematode Dracunculus medinensis mature into adult worms that resemble thin, long threads, similar to the appearance of a Guinea worm.

Can animals get infected with dracunculiasis?

Dracunculiasis primarily affects humans, but domestic animals, such as dogs, can also be infected with the parasite.

Can the Guinea worm be ingested?

No, the Guinea worm cannot proliferate in the human digestive system; it requires a suitable environment in the human body to complete its life cycle.

Are there any ongoing research efforts for dracunculiasis treatment?

Researchers are exploring new drug candidates and diagnostic methods, as well as investigating potential reservoirs of the Guinea worm in the environment.

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Information provided by Dr. Tekeste Etay Teka. Reviewed by Dr. Mohamed El Khouly