What clinical symptom is commonly associated with Onchocerciasis?

Onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, is caused by the parasitic worm Onchocerca volvulus, which is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected blackflies. One of the hallmark clinical symptoms associated with this disease is intense itching, which can be severe and debilitating. This scratching can lead to secondary infections and skin damage, significantly impacting the quality of life of those affected.

The itching is primarily due to the immune response to the adult worms and their microfilariae present in the skin, which results in inflammatory reactions. This itching can occur before other symptoms such as skin lesions or vision problems develop, making it a key early indicator of the disease.

In contrast, joint stiffness, severe headaches, and nausea are not typically associated with Onchocerciasis. Joint stiffness may be linked to other conditions such as arthritis, while severe headaches can be indicative of a variety of issues, including migraines or infections unrelated to Onchocerciasis. Nausea is a nonspecific symptom and can arise from numerous causes but is not a characteristic symptom of this particular parasitic infection.