Perception Of Inhabitants In Bui Township On Causes And Effects Of Onchocerciasis Ghana

Abstract An investigational study on Onchocerciasis also known as river blindness was conducted in Bui a town in the Brong-Ahafo Region of Ghana. This disease has recorded high values in this area of study and has been of national concern. The core aim of the studies was to assess the perception of the community members on causes effect and control of Onchocerciasis in Bui Township. A survey was conducted to obtain primary data from 100 respondents in three communities in the Bui Township and data were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively using Microsoft excel. The outcome of the study indicated 99 of respondents were aware of the presence of blackfly whiles 79 were knowledgeable about blackfly bite as the major cause of Onchocerciasis. Yearly treatment of the disease with a single-dose of Ivermectin within the three communities by the government through the ministry of health was established by the investigation. The study revealed a positive perception by Onchocerciasis-infected persons in the area regarding the causes effects and control of disease. However other findings indicated the awareness of the communities on the socio-economic and psychological effects of the disease and therefore has relatively high expectations from the government to curb the disease. The study therefore recommends further studies on the effectiveness of the yearly single dose in the treatment of Onchocerciasis.