About schistosomiasis

About schistosomiasis
Schistosomiasis, a trematode parasite, is an agent of significant human and veterinary disease. It infects over 207 million people globally, with 700 million at risk of infection, mostly in Sub-Saharan Africa and is endemic in 74 countries. Classified as a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD), it results in chronic health problems, and causes 200,000 deaths a year. NTD’s are usually found in developing countries and are most prevalent in the poorest communities; in wealthier regions they have been contained so are less visible than other diseases such as HIV AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria (‘the big three’). Schistosomiasis requires water contact for transmission and therefore thrives in areas where there is poor sanitation and unsafe (or contaminated) water. While schistosomiasis has lower mortality rates than the big three it causes high levels of morbidity, pain and disability.

Schistosomes
Schistosomes belong to the Schistosoma genus (Phylum: Platyhelminthes, Class: Trematoda, Order: Strigeiformes, Family: Schistosomatidae). Many Schistosoma species have a specific relationship with their definitive vertebrate host and there are over 20 species infecting mammals, birds and crocodiles. Six main species infect humans, Schistosoma haematobium, S. mansoni, S. japonicum, S mekongi S. guiniensis, and S. intercalatum. belong to the Schistosoma genus (Phylum: Platyhelminthes, Class: Trematoda, Order: Strigeiformes, Family: Schistosomatidae). Many Schistosoma species have a specific relationship with their definitive vertebrate host and there are over 20 species infecting mammals, birds and crocodiles. Unusual among flatworms, which are mainly hermaphroditic, schistosomes are dioecious, and the adult worms pair together.