Progress Toward Global Dracunculiasis (Guinea Worm Disease) Eradication, January 2023–June 2024

Summary

What is already known about this topic?

Human cases of dracunculiasis decreased from an estimated 3.5 million in 1986 to 13 in 2022. The circulation of dracunculiasis in dogs since 2012 has complicated eradication efforts.

What is added by this report?

Fourteen human cases and 886 animal infections were reported in 2023, and three human cases and 297 animal infections were reported during January–June 2024. As of June 2024, dracunculiasis remained endemic in five countries (Angola, Chad, Ethiopia, Mali, and South Sudan).

What are the implications for public health practice?

Program efforts have brought dracunculiasis close to the goal of eradication. However, dog infections and impeded access due to civil unrest and insecurity in Mali threaten the near-term possibility of global eradication.