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Updated: Aug 8, 2026
05:30
Cercarial Transformation and in vitro Cultivation of Schistosoma mansoni Schistosomules
Published on: August 16, 2011
Implementation of human schistosomiasis control: Challenges and prospects
Alan Fenwick1, David Rollinson, Vaughan Southgate
1Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College, London W2 1PG, UK.
Advances in Parasitology
|June 1, 2006
Summary
Schistosomiasis control relies on praziquantel (PZQ) and integrated programs. Sustainable funding and international initiatives are crucial for reversing morbidity in affected regions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Schistosomiasis affects over 70 countries, posing a significant public health challenge.
- Current control strategies include mollusciciding, biological control, drug therapy, and health education, with a focus on Africa.
- The lack of an effective vaccine necessitates reliance on chemotherapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the history and current methods of schistosomiasis control.
- To examine the role of praziquantel (PZQ) and potential alternative drugs like artemether.
- To highlight the importance of international initiatives and sustainable funding for control programs.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical and current schistosomiasis control strategies.
- Analysis of praziquantel (PZQ) usage and cost-effectiveness.
- Examination of emerging drug resistance and alternative treatments.
- Assessment of integrated disease control programs and international initiatives.
Main Results:
- Praziquantel (PZQ) is the primary drug for schistosomiasis control, with wider use in sub-Saharan Africa due to reduced cost and funding support.
- International initiatives like the Schistosomiasis Control Initiative (SCI) are vital in endemic countries.
- Integrated control programs with other diseases (e.g., helminths, lymphatic filariasis) reduce delivery costs.
- Countries on the periphery of schistosomiasis distribution show progress towards elimination.
Conclusions:
- Sustainable funding and strong political will from Ministries of Health and Education are essential for successful schistosomiasis control in sub-Saharan Africa.
- Continued research into alternative drugs like artemether is important due to potential praziquantel (PZQ) resistance.
- Integrating schistosomiasis control into broader public health initiatives enhances efficiency and impact.
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