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- Title
Tungiasis—A Neglected Disease with Many Challenges for Global Public Health.
- Authors
Feldmeier, Hermann; Heukelbach, Jorg; Ugbomoiko, Uade Samuel; Sentongo, Elizabeth; Mbabazi, Pamela; von Samson-Himmelstjerna, Georg; Krantz, Ingela
- Abstract
Tungiasis, also known as sand flea disease, is a parasitic skin disease that originated in South America and was introduced to sub-Saharan Africa in the 19th century. It predominantly affects marginalized populations, particularly children and the elderly. Tungiasis is the most common parasitic infection in resource-poor communities and causes severe morbidity and loss of quality of life. The disease is neglected by healthcare providers, policymakers, and funding institutions, despite its significant burden. Tungiasis is caused by female sand fleas penetrating the skin and can lead to inflammation, ulcers, gangrene, and other complications. The disease is transmitted through contact with contaminated soil and is more prevalent in areas with poor living conditions. There is a lack of reliable data on the occurrence of tungiasis, but it is known to be widespread in South America and sub-Saharan Africa. Tungiasis has re-emerged in East Africa and is a growing concern for travelers returning from endemic areas. The disease is closely linked to poverty and is more prevalent in children and elderly individuals. Prevention is the most effective means of controlling morbidity, and a repellent based on coconut oil has shown promising results in reducing the attack rate. Tungiasis should be recognized as a neglected tropical disease and addressed by global health organizations.
- Subjects
SUB-Saharan Africa; EAST Africa; SOUTH America; NEGLECTED diseases; WORLD health; MEDICAL personnel; NEUROCYSTICERCOSIS; PUBLIC health; PARASITIC diseases
- Publication
PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 2014, Vol 8, Issue 10, p1
- ISSN
1935-2727
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1371/journal.pntd.0003133