Nationwide

Despite the lack of data, it is likely that the whole population of CAR is at risk of schistosomiasis.  Also, STH are thought to be common throughout CAR.

The Central African Republic is in the process of putting together a national strategic plan against Neglected Tropical Diseases for the years 2007-2011.  With regard to schistosomiasis, the draft plan suggests that in order to elaborate a sound schistosomiasis section, a comprehensive nationwide survey is urgently needed.

With regard to STH activities, systematic treatment of children < 5 years of age across the country was reported during the national vaccination campaigns of 2006 and 2007.

WFP provides food to pre-primary and primary school children in 13/16 districts (prefectures) in the country reaching a total of 25,000 SAC in 108 primary schools (10% of the total SAC population) and 12,000 pre-school children in 151 kindergartens.

In February 2004, WFP started a 2 year programme to treat primary school age children for both STH and schistosomiasis in 4 provinces (Ombella Mpoko, Lobaye, Kemo and Nana-Grebizi). Treatment included praziquantel and mebendazole tablets delivered twice a year.

• The coverage in 2004 was expected to be 16,000.
• Teachers were trained to deliver the drugs.
• Girls comprise 40% of the enrolled school children.

Schistosomiasis and Soil Transmitted Helminths Country Profile. Central African Republic. World Health Organization. 2007. www.who.int/wormcontrol/databank.