Mass drug administration coverage and its determinants for the elimination of onchocerciasis in Ulanga District, Tanzania

MDA coverage below the WHO optimally recommended coverage has been demonstrated in the villages studied. This implies low drug uptake, delayed interruption of transmission and Onchocerciasis elimination. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to improve MDA coverage by focusing on younger individuals, certain occupational groups, and new residents. Strengthening community engagement, improving health communication, and intensifying biannual MDA efforts are recommended to accelerate Onchocerciasis elimination in the district. It also underscores the need for adopting other effective public health interventions such as community mobilization towards slash and clear of potential breeding sites for Onchocerciasis vector.