Strengthening onchocerciasis research capacity in northern Democratic Republic of Congo

Duration

2 years

Lead institutions

Universiteit Antwerpen

Université de Kisangani

Academic partners

Guy-Crispin Gembu Tungaluna

Project status

Ongoing

Programme

Total budget

69951.2

Summary

The Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) onchocerciasis remains highly endemic in the Bas-Uélé province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, despite more than 20 years of a community directed treatment with ivermectin (CDTi). Low ivermectin coverage in the Aketi health zone resulted in a high prevalence of onchocerciasis-related morbidity including onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy (OAE). This multi-disciplinary and multi-partner project will explore innovative ways to strengthen the onchocerciasis elimination program in Aketi, by integrating ivermectin distribution into the existing primary healthcare system and implementing vector control using “;Slash and Clear.” We will also strengthen the laboratory capacity of the Aketi hospital to investigate whether the novel O. volvulus RNA Virus 1 (OVRV1) can trigger seizures, thereby explaining the OAE pathogenesis to foster its management. The project will train two MSc students to build local expertise for the elimination of NTDs.