Onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, is a parasitic infection caused by Onchocerca volvulus. It requires specific antiparasitic treatment to control the infection and prevent disease progression.
The aims of treatment are resolution of the clinical signs of onchocerciasis and a meaningful reduction in the number of O. volvulus microfilariae.
Management relies on a well-established antiparasitic agent administered as a single dose — this is the drug of choice. In appropriate circumstances, an alternative agent from a different drug class may be used to achieve more sustained parasite reduction. One agent is specifically contra-indicated in this infection and must be avoided.