Schistosomiasis in Egypt: A never-ending story?

Area of Science:

• Medical Parasitology
• Tropical Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Schistosomiasis has a long history in Egypt, persisting as a major public health concern.
• Current control relies on limited therapeutic options, necessitating complementary strategies.
• The review covers historical, epidemiological, morbidity, therapeutic, and control aspects of schistosomiasis in Egypt.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the past and present trends of schistosomiasis in Egypt.
• To highlight the urgent need for complementary control measures, particularly a vaccine.
• To discuss the efforts of Egyptian scientists in developing a schistosomiasis vaccine.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of schistosomiasis history, epidemiology, morbidity, therapy, and control in Egypt.
• Analysis of current therapeutic limitations and the need for alternative interventions.
• Examination of vaccine development approaches against Schistosoma infection.

Main Results:

• Schistosomiasis continues to be a prevalent and overlooked disease in Egypt.
• Existing treatment options are insufficient for comprehensive control and elimination.
• Egyptian scientists are actively pursuing vaccine development as a key strategy.

Conclusions:

• Developing an effective and affordable schistosomiasis vaccine is crucial for disease elimination in Egypt and endemic regions.
• Various vaccine formulations, including purified antigen, DNA, attenuated cercariae, and excretory-secretory antigen vaccines, are being explored.
• This research provides insights into the long-standing challenge of schistosomiasis and future control prospects.