Schistosomiasis

This infection (also known as Bilharzia), caused by Schistosoma trematode flatworms, is transmitted by snails living in fresh water such as lakes, rivers, streams and ponds in the Caribbean, South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

This preventable disease affects more than 200 million people worldwide. There are six types of flatworms that are responsible for schistosomiasis either causing damage to the urinary tract, bladder, kidneys, liver, or gastro-intestinal system.

Travellers can take measures to prevent infection, mainly avoiding swimming in fresh water. Schistosomiasis can be treated with medication and with improved sanitation, snail control, and health education, the disease can be eradicated.

For Schistosomiasis risk areas worldwide and details on the snail vectors, see IAMAT's World Schistosomiasis Risk Chart. To learn more about the lifecycle of flatworms and infection prevention measures, see IAMAT's Be Aware of Schistosomiasis.

Risk of Schistosomiasis is present in the following countries:



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