Schistosomiasis Transmission
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2019-07-23T16:48:33-07:00
Transmission: Human infections can be caused by Schistosoma mansoni, S. haematobium, or S. japonicum and are normally harbored in snails. The disease is transmitted through contact between skin and contaminated water.
Symptoms: Rash causing itchy skin 1-2 days after infection. Internal scarring from the movement of the worms has been reported. In children the symptoms are more harsh in the case of prolonged infection for instance anemia, malnutrition and learning difficulties can occur. Years of infection can lead to damage of the liver, intestines, lungs or bladder. In severe cases neurological damage including paralysis and seizures can occur.
Host: Freshwater snails that thrive in conditions of deforestation and pollution have been found to harbor the parasite.
Risk Factors: Consuming or being in areas with water contaminated by the parasite.
Treatment: Medication is available for intestinal and urinary infections. Praziquantel is taken for 1-2 days.
Prevention: Currently countries are eradicating the snails that continue the life cycle of the bacterium or limiting the exposure and transmission of the parasite. Having adequate sanitation and water systems is important in breaking the cycle of transmission.
