community-directed treatment with ivermectin (CDTI)

Community-directed treatment with ivermectin (CDTI) is a strategy where local communities actively participate in controlling diseases like river blindness (onchocerciasis). Trained community members organize and distribute ivermectin, a medication that prevents the disease’s spread by killing the parasites in affected individuals. This approach empowers communities to manage their health, ensuring broad access and consistent treatment. CDTI is effective because it leverages local knowledge and resources, increasing coverage and sustainability while reducing the need for centralized healthcare services. The goal is to eliminate or reduce the disease’s impact through widespread, ongoing treatment within the community.