African Programme for Onchocerciasis Control (APOC)

The African Programme for Onchocerciasis Control (APOC) is a health initiative aimed at reducing onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, a disease caused by a parasitic worm transmitted by black flies. The program focuses on treating affected communities with safe, mass distribution of the drug ivermectin to eliminate the disease’s spread. It also promotes community involvement and sustainable health strategies to prevent reinfection. APOC works across many African countries, helping to improve quality of life and prevent disability caused by the disease.