Abstract

Simulium damnosum sensu lato constitutes serious public health hazard and socio-economic problem in many areas of West Africa. The present study was carried out to document the socio-economic implications of black fly infestation in some rural communities of Odeda Local Government. Structured questionnaires were administered to thirty randomly selected people aged 18 years and above in three selected communities. All the respondents agreed that black fly is a problem in their communities and 63 (70%) out of 90 respondents attributed body itching/ swelling to black fly bite. Majority of the respondents (60%) lost 14 working days in a year due to illness caused by black fly bites. Those who lost between 7 and 14 days in a year due to black fly bites constituted (37.8%). While in the sick bed, each to 46 (51.1%) respondents had at least one person detailed to stay with them and the majority of them up to $100 in treating the ailment. The results emphasize the need to break man/fly contact considering the fact that most of the affected people are subsistence farmers with low incomes. 

Key words: Socio-economic implications, Simulium damnosum complex, Nigeria.