infections
Dracunculiasis
Treatment of Dracunculiasis
Removal of the adult worm Usually, the adult worm (which may be up to 47 inches [120 centimeters] long) is slowly removed over days to weeks by rolling it on a stick. When the head starts to come out, the person grasps it and wraps the end of the worm around a small stick. Gradually, as the worm loosens, the stick is turned, wrapping more of the worm around the stick. Eventually, the worm is pulled free and discarded. When health care workers are available, they can remove the worm through a small incision made after a local anesthetic is used. No drugs can kill the worms. But if a bacterial infection develops around the worm's opening, people may need antibiotics. 