Unraveling the Mystery of Nodding Syndrome for a Cure
Nodding syndrome, a rare neurological disease characterized by repetitive head nodding and other severe symptoms, has haunted families in northern Uganda for two decades. While many experts believe the disease is related to the parasitic roundworm Onchocerca volvulus, which causes river blindness, others argue for other possible causes, including malnutrition and the consumption of a toxic mushroom. The lack of understanding of the disease's origins could delay current treatment and perhaps even the scientific know-how needed to combat the next nodding syndrome epidemic. Efforts to control Simulium fly populations and the distribution of anti-parasitic drugs like ivermectin have been rolled out in many rural villages affected by onchocerciasis, resulting in a decrease in new cases of nodding syndrome.