Control of epidemic dysentery in Africa : overview, recommendations, and checklists

This report provides an analysis of lessons learned and recommended actions for addressing these two reemergent infectious diseases; it supports the concept proposed by WHO that because of similarities in the transmission of the two diseases and in many of the control activities, a coordinated control program is appropriate. The report begins with an overview of cholera and dysentery, followed by a brief history of dysentery epidemics in Africa, the current epidemiology, and a few of the lessons learned in other parts of the world, concluding with recommendations. Also provided are checklists on epidemic dysentery, which are intended to provide guidance to Ministry of Health planners, Mission health officers, and health workers who are formulating and reviewing national and regional control plans. Includes references. (Author abstract, modified)