Monitoring use of monofilament nylon water filters for Guineaworm control in a rural Nigerian community

Guineaworm has been targeted for eradication from endemic areas of Africa and South Asia. One short-term intervention consists of filtering pond water through a clean cloth. Monofilament nylon cloth has been found to be more effective in straining out the vector - various species of the small crustacean, cyclops - than local cotton cloth, though the former one is more expensive. A concern with any new technique is whether the community will accept the idea and subsequently use it properly. The report looks at filter use and factors associated with use and durability. Monthly monitoring visits by a field assistant served to identify problems and reinforced correct and continued filtration. Mobility of the population between farm and town hampered regular use. Difficulty in understanding the nature of the nearly invisible vectors meant that users did not perceive tiny holes in their filters as dangerous. While filters were ultimately seen as useful in guineaworm eradication efforts, they should not take the place of more long-term community water supply interventions which will have a greater impact on community and women's development