By Francis Tim Mbom
Officials from the Southwest Regional Delegation of Public Health have announced a targeted campaign to reduce the prevalence of several Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) still affecting communities across the region. The initiative, which will run until May, includes school-based de-worming program and the distribution of medication to combat lymphatic filariasis.
The campaign was detailed during a press briefing in Limbe on Thursday, January 29, by the Regional NTD Coordinator, Mukete Nasare, and the Communications Officer, Syntia Mukwelle née Tabot.
The briefing was held ahead of World NTD Day, observed globally on January 30. First marked in 2020 and formally recognized by the World Health Assembly in May 2021, the day aims to raise awareness of diseases that remain widespread yet often overlooked in elimination efforts.
This year’s theme, “Unite, Act & Eliminate NTDs as a Public Health Problem,” underscores the need for coordinated action. Nasare explained that while the World Health Organization lists 21 NTDs worldwide, several continue to pose significant health challenges in the Southwest Region. These include lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis), soil-transmitted helminths (intestinal worms), schistosomiasis (bilharzia), leprosy, onchocerciasis (river blindness), and trachoma.
From now through May, health teams will visit schools to administer mebendazole to children aged 5–14 to treat intestinal worms. In communities, they will distribute Mectizan® to individuals aged five and above to combat onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis.
Regarding leprosy, Nasare highlighted available treatment centres, such as those at Manyemen Hospital in Nguti and in Kumba. She urged anyone showing symptoms such as skin patches with loss of sensation or numbness in fingers or toes to seek immediate care. “Leprosy is fully treatable, but delay can lead to permanent disability,” she stressed.
She also emphasised that many NTDs are linked to poor hygiene and unsafe water sources. “Infections like intestinal worms often result from not washing hands properly before eating or consuming unwashed fruits and contaminated water,” she noted.
Success depends on community cooperation, particularly in accepting medications. Nasare acknowledged that some people avoid Mectizan® due to fear of side effects but assured that current formulations are much better tolerated. First-time recipients are advised to inform distributors for appropriate dosage guidance. Pregnant women, new mothers, children under five, and those who are acutely ill are exempted from taking the drug.
The Coordinator reiterated the government’s commitment to eliminating NTDs in the Southwest and across Cameroon, calling on the public to adhere to treatment and preventive measures. “With full collaboration, we can make Cameroon an NTD-free society,” she concluded.