Environmental and behavioral drivers of Buruli ulcer disease in selected communities along the Densu River Basin of Ghana: A case-control study.

The exact route of transmission of Mycobacterium ulcerans (MU), risk factors, and reservoir hosts are not clearly known, although it has been identified as an environmental pathogen. This study assessed potential environmental and behavioral risk factors that influence BU infections. We conducted a case -control study where cases were matched by their demographic characteristics and place of residence. A structured questionnaire was administered to solicit information on the environmental and behavioral factors of participants that may expose them to infection.
Farming in long clothing, washing wound with water and soap and application of adhesive bandage on wounds were found to be protective against BU infection. In the absence of the exact MU transmission mechanisms, education of public in BU- endemic zones on the use of protective clothing during farming activities to limit exposure of the skin and proper wound care management would be essential in the fight against BU.