Ethiopia
Country Overview
Ethiopia has a devastating NTD burden, which is exacerbated by widespread poverty across the country. Exact prevalence rates are unknown, but it is understood that soil-transmitted helminthes (STHs) are endemic across the country, while other infections are localized in particular regions based on geography. Schistosomiasis, for example, is endemic in the Rift Valley, while leishmaniasis is a primary concern in the Tigray Region.
Control Efforts
In the summer of 2008, the Center for Emerging Tropical Diseases and AIDS (CEMTA) at Ben Gurion University, in partnership with the Earth Institute and the Ministry of Health, was sponsored by MedPharm to provide deworming treatment to the people of Mekele. The program will target the school children in Mekele, as well as all who access care at the three Mekele health centers; the total target population is 250,000 people.
In October 2008, a “training of trainers” workshop was conducted for representatives from the health centers and local schools. These community leaders were taught about NTDs, as well as the best means of prevention and treatment. They were encouraged to work together to determine the best strategy for educating and treating the highest risk populations. In December, these trainers held a similar workshop for teachers and health center volunteers. Once the training is complete, the deworming campaign will begin.
In addition to the efforts in Mekele, CEMTA is also working with three non-governmental organizations based in Addis Ababa and the Rift Valley. CEMTA will work with an HIV/AIDS clinic, an HIV testing center and a local health clinic to include deworming education and treatment into the routine services offered.
Remaining Gap
Ethiopia – with a population of over 80 million people – is in desperate need of further support to deworm the millions of people who remain infected. National NTD control will only be possible with funding for all parts of the country, region by region. Even the programs that have been initiated in Mekele and the Rift Valley continue to need support. To support ongoing efforts in Ethiopia, please click here.
