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The life cycle of Schistosoma involves freshwater snails as intermediate hosts, where the parasites undergo development before being released into the water. Human infection occurs when individuals come into contact with infested water, allowing the larvae, called cercariae, to penetrate the skin. Once inside the human host, the parasites mature into adult worms that reside in the blood vessels surrounding the intestines or bladder, depending on the Schistosoma species. The adult worms release eggs that are excreted in urine or feces, perpetuating the cycle when they reach freshwater and hatch into larvae.

Chronic schistosomiasis can lead to various health complications, including liver and spleen enlargement, bladder and kidney damage, and increased susceptibility to other infections. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in urine, and fatigue. Preventive measures focus on avoiding contact with contaminated water, and treatment typically involves the administration of anti-parasitic medications such as praziquantel. Global efforts to control and eliminate schistosomiasis involve mass drug administration, improved sanitation, and health education to reduce the risk of infection in affected communities.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a single oral dose of an anti-parasitic medication known as praziquantel as the standard treatment for schistosomiasis. While praziquantel is the mainstay of schistosomiasis treatment, ongoing research is focused on developing alternative drugs and vaccines to enhance treatment options and prevention strategies. Additionally, efforts to improve sanitation, provide access to clean water, and educate communities about the risks of infection play crucial roles in the overall control and elimination of schistosomiasis. Integrated control programs that combine chemotherapy with other interventions are essential for sustainable progress in reducing the global burden of this neglected tropical disease.

how to help

1. World Health Organization (WHO): The WHO plays a crucial role in global health, including the control and elimination of neglected tropical diseases like schistosomiasis. Donations to the WHO can support their programs and initiatives aimed at reducing the burden of the disease.
2. Schistosomiasis Control Initiative (SCI): SCI is an organization focused specifically on the treatment and control of schistosomiasis and other neglected tropical diseases. They work in collaboration with governments and partners to implement mass drug administration programs and provide support to affected communities.
3. END Fund: The END Fund is dedicated to controlling and eliminating neglected tropical diseases, including schistosomiasis. They support programs that provide medication, education, and access to clean water and sanitation.
4. Sabin Vaccine Institute: The Sabin Vaccine Institute is involved in research and development of vaccines for various neglected tropical diseases, including schistosomiasis. Donations to the institute contribute to advancing scientific solutions for preventing and treating the disease.
5. Water.org: Improving access to clean water and sanitation is a crucial aspect of schistosomiasis control. Water.org works to provide sustainable access to safe water and sanitation, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases.

Many organizations appreciate not only financial contributions, but also volunteer support and advocacy. By raising awareness about schistosomiasis and neglected tropical diseases, you can help promote a broader understanding of these issues and support ongoing efforts to combat them.

credits

Lea

Background image from this article.

Information comes from years of personal research, as parasites are a fascination of mine! I learned most of my information from Wikipedia, television shows such as Monsters Inside Me, and the CDC's website. Click these links at your own risk - images may be disturbing!