Start of Moxidectin and Ivermectin Treatments

The ivermectin and moxidectin treatment campaign has begun in the EMINENCE project area. Of the 1,300 community drug distributors (CDDs) trained in preparation for the campaign, 730 took part in distribution, representing approximately 56% of the expected workforce.

This campaign marks an important step in implementing the project, which evaluates different treatment strategies to accelerate the elimination of onchocerciasis. Depending on the strategy assigned to each community, residents received either ivermectin or moxidectin. Participating CDDs delivered treatment within their communities, with support from health workers and project teams.

Community meetings and training sessions were held before treatment began to prepare distributors for their responsibilities. However, participation in the campaign fell below the number trained: 570 CDDs did not take part in distribution. This gap shows that training, although essential, does not by itself guarantee participation when treatment begins.

The reasons for non-participation remain to be documented. Discussions with CDDs, community leaders and health teams will help clarify the difficulties encountered and identify adjustments needed for future campaigns. It will also be important to examine how the reduced workforce affected the organisation of distribution and the workload of participating CDDs.

The involvement of 730 distributors enabled the campaign to get underway. Their participation made an essential contribution to delivering treatment in the villages. For future rounds, the challenge will be to sustain this involvement and provide better support for the transition from training to active participation in the field.

The number of participating CDDs is an indicator of implementation. Treatment coverage results will show the extent to which the campaign reached its target populations.