Image taken from BBC audio interview with Dr. Andrew MacDonald.
Researchers at Parasites and Vectors have released new data regarding the prevalence of schistosomiasis in Sudan. The impetus of this study came from recent lab results confirming cases of urinary schistosomiasis in children in two South Darfur communities . The “aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of schistosomiasis in the area and to decide on modalities of intervention.” Their research method collected a total of 811 urine samples to examine the ova of schistosomiasis in the affected Alsafia and Abuselala communities . The survey found that “children in the age group 10-14 had the highest infection rate [while] school age children, 6-15 years, are more likely to be infected than those younger than 15 years of age.” The results of their study indicates that “schistosomiasis is endemic in Alsafia and Abuselala in South Darfur, Sudan with a high prevalence of infection among older children.” These findings entreat an urgent intervention through Mass Drug Administration (MDA) in order to derail the infection rate and provide health education to targeted groups.
Schistosomiasis, most commonly known as snail fever, is one of the seven most common neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and is second to malaria as the most common parasitic disease.
Learn more about this study here!
Also, check out this BBC audio interview discussing schistosomiasis with Dr. Andrew MacDonald from Scotland.
