| Mass campaigns still play a role in the fight against endemic diseases in Africa, and, due to lack of funds and resources, must continue to take precedence over other forms of medical care in African countries south of the Sahara. However, techniques of organizing more campaigns, such as the use of auxiliary health worker teams, could be applied to the organization of future basic health services in rural areas of Africa. The irregularity of visits by mobile teams has limited the effectiveness of health education and preventive medicine. Local populations should be assured services when a team of multipurpose or polyvalent workers under appropriate supervision keep a known schedule at a fixed spot. Mass health campaigns of the past will provide a model for future rural health care in Africa. |