Serge Raoul Ekukole Ekome

Mr. Serge Raoul Ekukole Ekome


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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JFJoseph Nelson Siewe Fodjo
Joseph Nelson Siewe Fodjo
SESerge Raoul Ekukole Ekome
Serge Raoul Ekukole Ekome
JNJulius Ndi Taryunyu Njamnshi
Julius Ndi Taryunyu Njamnshi
WNWepnyu Yembe Njamnshi
Wepnyu Yembe Njamnshi
KNKongnyu Gamnsi Njamnshi
Kongnyu Gamnsi Njamnshi
ANAlfred K Njamnshi
Alfred K Njamnshi
Besides being vectors of the onchocerciasis parasite, blackflies are a source of nuisance in onchocerciasis-endemic communities. We investigated the experience of residents in the Ntui Health District (Cameroon) regarding blackfly nuisance and assessed their perceptions of a novel “Slash and Clear” (S&C) intervention for blackfly control. Focus group discussions were conducted before and after S&C implementation (respectively, in February 2022 and December 2023). Blackflies were known to emerge from the river areas and cause disease. To prevent blackfly bites, the population often covered their body with protective clothing and applied various substances (kerosene, oil, or lemon) to their skin. Post-intervention data showed reduced blackfly nuisance, and the willingness to sustain blackfly control in the long-term was unanimous among community leaders and members, including the village volunteers who implemented the S&C intervention. In conclusion, blackfly nuisance is evident in the Ntui onchocerciasis focus of Cameroon and led to a panoply of coping practices, some of which could be detrimental to their health. Implementing S&C for blackfly control is well accepted and could sustainably alleviate the nuisance caused by blackflies while simultaneously breaking the onchocerciasis transmission cycle.