Health risk assessment of a planned irrigation scheme along the Genale River, South Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract:

Health risk assessment of a planned irrigation scheme along the Genale River, South Ethiopia, was conducted in June 1994 covering parasitological, entomological, malacological and environmental/ ecological parameters. Malaria due to P. falciparum and P. vivax appears to be the main health problem. The implicated vectors are Anopheles gambiae and A. pharoensis. P. martini, the vector of visceral leishmaniasis in the Aba Roba focus, Southern Ethiopia, is present in the study area although the status of visceral leishmaniasis here is uncertain. Intestinal parasites, including schistosomiasis, were very low in prevalence. The possible health consequences of the planned irrigation scheme and precautions to be taken are discussed. [Ethiop. J. Health Dev. 1997;11(3):229-233]