Dracunculiasis

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Dracunculiasis (pronunciation: dra-kun-kyu-li-a-sis), also known as Guinea worm disease (GWD), is a parasitic infection caused by the nematode roundworm parasite Dracunculus medinensis. The disease is classified under the and.

Etymology

The term "Dracunculiasis" is derived from the Latin draco (meaning dragon) and -culiasis (meaning infestation). The name "Guinea worm" is believed to have originated from its prevalence in the Guinea region of West Africa.

Cause

Dracunculiasis is caused by the ingestion of water contaminated with copepods (tiny crustaceans) infected with the larvae of the Dracunculus medinensis parasite. The disease is therefore associated with poor sanitation and lack of access to clean drinking water.

Symptoms

The main symptom of Dracunculiasis is the emergence of a painful blister, usually on the lower limbs, about a year after infection. This is followed by the emergence of the adult female worm, which can be up to a meter long.

Treatment

There is no specific drug treatment for Dracunculiasis. The worm is usually removed manually over a period of weeks. Prevention is the most effective strategy, focusing on provision of clean water and education about the risks of consuming contaminated water.

Related Terms

See Also

External links

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