Onchocerca volvulus is a gonochoristic filarial nematode parasite of humans causing Onchocerciasis. Onchocerciasis, or River Blindness, is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) which affects over 37 million people, mainly in Africa. It is a severely debilitating disease, which is transmitted to humans by the bite of Simulium blackflies that live and breed near fast-flowing streams and rivers.
WormBase is a scientific database for experimental work on C. elegans and other laboratory nematodes: it is not a resource for medical information, it is not run or staffed by clinicians, and it should not be used as a source of advice on parasitic nematode infections. If you need such advice, please contact a qualified physician, preferably one trained in parasitic diseases.