What is onchocerciasis commonly known as?

Onchocerciasis is commonly known as river blindness due to its association with the riverine habitats where the transmission of the disease occurs. The disease is caused by the parasitic worm Onchocerca volvulus, which is transmitted through the bites of infected blackflies typically found near rivers and fast-flowing streams. The significant impact of this disease is its potential to cause severe itching and lesions, leading to vision impairment and ultimately blindness in some cases. This link to riverine environments highlights the importance of managing water bodies to reduce the breeding of blackflies, which is crucial in efforts to control and prevent onchocerciasis.

The other options do not relate specifically to onchocerciasis; mountain fever, desert arthritis, and coastal rash refer to different medical conditions or syndromes that have distinct causes and symptoms. By focusing on its riverine nature, "river blindness" accurately captures both the epidemiological context and the severe consequences of the disease, emphasizing its impact on vision and quality of life for those affected.