Schistosomiasis a preventable public health problem

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by blood flukes (worms), affecting the urinary and digestic tracts. The disease has been reported from 78 countries in the world. People become infected when larval forms of the parasite are released from freshwater snails and penetrate human skin. Transmission from human to human is not possible. Recently, schistosomiasis is reported in Myanmar, viz Rakhine State, Southern Shan State (near Lake Inle) and Bago Region. Between Oct 2016 and Nov 2018, about 1,734 suspected cases were tested, and 947 were found serologically (IgG) positive.

To support prevention and control efforts by the national health authorities, WHO provided technical guidelines, partook in field investigation and mobilized essential commodities for diagnosis and treatment. A mission of experts from WHO and Ministry of Health & Sports, visited parts of Rakhine State, and assessed the situation to advise on future course of action. Confirmatory diagnostic tests are needed. Further, the specific species of snail responsible for transmission (as intermediate host) needs to identified and mapped. In addition, it is recommended to map where schistosomiasis occurs in the country, as per WHO standard protocols.

Prevention and control of schistosomiasis is based on access to safe water, improved sanitation, hygiene educaton and health literacy and snail control. Furthermore, based on where the disease occurs and how widespread it is, large-scale treatment of at-risk population may be considered. Further details can be obtained at https://www.who.int/health-topics/schistosomiasis and https://bit.ly/2OGBgMP