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Published on: August 16, 2011
Acute Schistosomiasis in Travelers Returning From Mali
Colebunders1, Verstraeten, Van Gompel A
1Medical Department, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium and University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
Journal of Travel Medicine
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Acute schistosomiasis, also known as Katayama syndrome, is a serious risk for travelers. This condition arises weeks after exposure to contaminated water, highlighting the need for awareness and prevention in tourist areas.
Area of Science:
- Tropical medicine
- Parasitology
- Public health
Background:
- Acute schistosomiasis (Katayama syndrome) affects individuals with no prior infection.
- Symptoms manifest 3-6 weeks post-exposure to water containing Schistosoma cercariae.
- Tourist outbreaks are frequently reported, often linked to recreational water activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate an outbreak of acute schistosomiasis among travelers.
- To document imported schistosomiasis cases from Mali, West Africa.
Main Methods:
- Investigation of a 1993 outbreak involving European and American travelers.
- Review of previously reported outbreaks in Dogon country, Mali.
Main Results:
- Confirmed imported schistosomiasis in travelers returning from Mali.
- Identified a pattern of outbreaks among tourists in the same region since 1989.
Conclusions:
- Travelers to endemic areas are at risk of acute schistosomiasis.
- Outbreaks underscore the importance of identifying and avoiding contaminated water sources for tourists.
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