The World Health Assembly

adopted a resolution calling for the eradication of dracunculiasis (Guinea worm disease) in 1986, when an estimated 3.5 million cases occurred annually in 20 countries. Guinea worm is a painful and debilitating infestation contracted by drinking stagnant water contaminated with Guinea worm larvae. The Carter Center took the lead in eradicating this disease, with support from the Centers for Disease Control. Today, Guinea worm is still present in only six countries, and less than 2,000 people are infected.