The prevalence and distribution of Mansonella ozzardi in coastal north Trinidad, W.I.

ABSTRACT

A day blood smear survey for Mansonella ozzardi in the north coast communities of Trinidad recorded a prevalence of 4.8% in 4,488 persons examined. Prevalence rates were highest in the four western-most communities, where the vector, Culicoides phlebotomus, is a severe nuisance problem. Prevalence rates increased with age and were higher in males than in females. Mean microfilaria densities were low in both sexes up to 50 years of age but in older males the density increased with age. Wuchereria bancrofti infections were detected in five of the ten communities surveyed.