Republic of Congo
Sightsavers’ work in the Republic of Congo focuses on preventing the spread of neglected tropical diseases such as river blindness, by distributing treatments to people at risk.
Diseases such as river blindness are endemic in Republic of Congo, with an estimated 518,000 people needing medication to protect against this potentially blinding disease.
River blindness, one of a group of conditions known as neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), is spread by the bite of infected black flies that breed near fast-flowing rivers. The disease can cause severe irritation and itching. If it’s not treated, it can eventually lead to blindness.
Sightsavers and partners aim to eliminate river blindness in the country by distributing medication to protect and treat the disease, as well as improving the quality of treatment by training health workers and volunteers to give out medication in the community.
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Braving the odds to combat NTDs in Democratic Republic of Congo
Sightsavers surveillance manager Ndellejong Cosmas Ejong explains what has already been achieved in DRC, and how we’re pushing ahead to tackle these debilitating neglected tropical diseases.
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Experts praise Sightsavers’ innovative funding in Cameroon
The Cameroon Cataract Development Impact Loan will provide up to 18,000 cataract operations in the country over the next five years.
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A round-up of our work across the world, including news from India, Uganda and Cameroon.
Sightsavers and partners launch innovative approach to funding cataract surgery
The Cameroon Cataract Development Impact Loan could provide up to 18,000 cataract operations in the next five years.
Test and treat: tackling river blindness in Cameroon
Sightsavers is trialling an alternative strategy: rather than treating entire populations, the aim is to test residents first to see if they have the disease.
Research sleuths: how we investigate blips in our NTD elimination projects
How do we react when outcomes aren’t what we expect? The mystery of Cameroon’s Western Region sheds light on the process.
Changing lives in Cameroon
Sightsavers staff travel to Cameroon to mark a milestone in the fight against river blindness: distribution of the 250 millionth Mectizan® treatment.
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