Programme National de Lutte contre I'Onchocercose
The goal of the programme is to put in place reliable, durable and integrated mechanisms for the distribution of Ivermectin drug (Mectizan) with the aim of eliminating Onchocerciasis as a public health problem in Burundi. The programme, which commenced in 2003, covers a population of 1.2 million people, or 15% of the total population of Burundi. The programme is being implemented in partnership with Burundi Ministry of Public Health, the African Program Onchocerciasis Control (APOC) and the Mectizan Donation Program (MDP) and covers the provinces of Cibitoke, Bubanza, Rutana and Bururi and Makamba. APOC is contributing 50% of the overall cost of the programme over a 5-year period while the Government of Burundi, cbm and Merck share the rest of the costs for the programme.
In 2007, an additional component to treat people affected by Neglected Tropical Diseases (Schistosomiasis, Trachoma, Helminths, Lymphatic Filariasis in addition to Onchocerciasis) was added to the programme. The main aim of the project is to eliminate the public health impact of these diseases, and develop local capacity that will be able to treat and control these diseases in a sustainable manner.
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