Importation of seven cases of an unusual helminthic infection into Singapore and assessment of the risk of local transmission

LSU Lee, NI Paton
Correspondence: Dr Lawrence Lee Soon U, llee3@jhsph.edu

ABSTRACT
Singapore remains vulnerable to the introduction of infectious diseases from other countries due to the high traffic of migrant labour and other visitors. We describe seven cases of migrant workers from West Africa who entered Singapore carrying loaisis, a helminthic infection. The clinical presentation, treatment using single dose ivermectin, potential for transmission, and the need for screening of this infection in Singapore are discussed.

Keywords: Chrysops, disease transmission, helminths, loa loa, parasitic infection
Singapore Med J 2004; 45(5): 227-228