Guinea worm eradication - Evaluation of animal infection surveillance system in Abobo and Gog woredas Gambella region Ethiopia

Abstract

Introduction: Guinea worm is a Neglected Tropical Disease caused by a parasitic worm Dracunculus medinensis. It was recognized only as a disease of humans for many years, however recently it was identified as a zoonotic disease. In Ethiopia, animal guinea worm infection have been reported since 2013 and now have become a new challenge. Surveillance was the primary intervention strategy conducted by Ethiopian Dracunculiasis Eradication Program. Strong surveillance in animals could be an important part of guinea worm elimination in the country; if the surveillance system is functional and regularly evaluated.

Objectives: To evaluate animal guinea worm infection surveillance system in Abobo and Gog woredas of Gambella Region, Ethiopia, from April to March 2019.

Methods: Cross-sectional study design was used. Data were collected via interview using structured questionnaire, document review and observation. The Carter Center Ethiopia and regional livestock sector were the data sources.

Result: Rumor investigation, outbreak investigation and response, case management and containment, as well asanalyzing animal surveillance data were found to be the major surveillance activities conducted in the study area. However, the surveillance system lacks important functioning tools like; standard guide line, operating procedure, case registry book, standard animal infection case definition and written feedbacks. There was also no integrated surveillance system with the livestock sector. The animal infection containment rate was low (39%) between 2013 – 2019; which could impact the high probability of transmission. About 1,507 suspected animals were reported from January - February 2019. Government involvement on handling the animal infection especially the livestock sectors was found to be minimal. There were no documented surveillance data found in the livestock sectors, however,  functional surveillance system and surveillance data are the basic criteria for disease free certification process.

Conclusion: Multisectoral collaboration like with livestock sector is crucial for effective surveillance program. A separate SOP, guidelines, case definitions, written feedback form and registry book for animal guinea worm infection surveillance should be developed and used. Livestock sector should be increase its participation since it can play a vital role in the eradication program.