Microsoft Word 02Preface doc

4)
 
Guinea Worm Eradication   
Ghana has the second highest prevalence rate of Guinea Worm Disease (GWD) next to 
Sudan.  Thus, a guinea worm eradication programs was launched in 1987 by the 
MOH, and the major activities/interventions that have been carried out are as follows.   
 
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House to house surveillance for guinea worm cases by village volunteers 
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Case management, including occlusive bandaging and worm extraction 
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Filter distribution and/or replacement 
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Abatement application for treatable water sources 
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Health education 
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Training of volunteers and health workers (case management, filter use)   
 
Despite these actions, the number of GWD cases has increased due to re-infection over 
the last few years; from 4,739 in 2001 to 5,611 in 2002.  This situation is quite 
worrying and demands concerted effort through inter-sectoral policy making.   
 

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