Togo

Blindness in Togo

Togo is one of the smallest countries on the African continent. Located in West Africa, the country has a total population of approximately 7.6 million people – an estimated 4.7 million of whom require treatment to protect against river blindness or onchocerciasis.

River blindness is most commonly spread by the bites of infected flies that breed near fast-flowing rivers. The illness is typically associated with skin complications and visual impairments. Symptoms also include skin rashes, bumpy skin, and eye rashes which can eventually lead to blindness. However, many cases are asymptomatic.

In addition to river blindness, many Togolese people suffer from cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal opacities.