Bancroftian filariasis. An autochthonous case in Zambia

The first report of an autochthonous case of Wuchereira bancrofti in Zambia is presented. Observations are made on the diagnostic features of the microfilatiae particularly in relation to their periodicity and aggulutination in sequestrinated blood. The criteria used to identify the worms in section and the problems in diagnosis are outlined. Though imported cases have also been diagnosed it is considered that bancroftian filariasis is probably endemic. Further comprehensive investigations are recommended in ecologically transmissable areas.

Kala-azar in Zambia: first report of two cases

Two autochthonous cases of kala-azar, the first such report of the disease from Central and Southern Africa, are described. Both patients presented with generalized macules, papules and nodules without ulceration and both also had tuberculosis. Amastigotes were cultured from blood and identified in skin, bone marrow, liver and spleen.

Seasonal population densities of snails transmitting urinary and intestinal schistosomiasis in Lusaka, Zambia

The two molluscan intermediate hosts of S. haematobium schistosomiasis: Bulinus africanus and Bulinus globosus, were found most commonly in habitats that retained water for a substantial part of the year rather than in temporary rain-filled pools. Biomphalaria pfeifferi which transmits S. mansoni were found principally in streams and impoundments like dams but scarce in rivers. In a permanent habitat, the peak density of snails was between the warm, dry months of August and September while in a temporary habitat B. (Physopsis) sp. were most abundant towards the end of the rainy season in March and April. The influence of rainfall and the prevailing the temperature on the fluctuations in the density of snails populations is considered. Further, the low infection rate in snails found in the field is discussed in relation to the critical effect of temperature on this feature. The problem of increasing migration of rural inhabitants to the peri-urban areas and the possible escalation of prevalence rates is considered in relation to the control measures that may be instituted in view of the substantial body of base-line data now available to effect focal control.