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Schistosomiasis Acquired in Lake Malawi
1Infectious Diseases Unit at the Bnai Zion Medical Center and The Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Haifa, Israel.
Journal of Travel Medicine
|March 1, 1996
Summary
Travelers to Lake Malawi risk Schistosomiasis haematobium (SH) infection, a disease often acquired unknowingly. Early diagnosis is crucial, as some cases are asymptomatic, highlighting the need for travel clinic advisories.
Area of Science:
- Tropical Medicine
- Parasitology
- Traveler's Health
Background:
- Schistosomiasis is a prevalent tropical disease, second only to malaria.
- The transmission routes of schistosomiasis are poorly understood by many travelers.
- Travelers may disregard health recommendations from travel clinics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze cases of Schistosomiasis haematobium (SH) infection in travelers.
- To identify the source of infection for diagnosed cases.
- To inform travel health advisories regarding specific geographic risks.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive analysis of 22 patients with SH infection.
- Data collected from two travel clinics in Israel between 1993 and 1994.
- Diagnosis confirmed via urine egg detection and serology.
Main Results:
- All 22 patients acquired SH in Lake Malawi.
- A high attack rate was observed, with seven couples infected.
- Three cases were asymptomatic, leading to diagnostic delays up to 52 weeks.
Conclusions:
- Lake Malawi is a confirmed source of SH infection for travelers diagnosed in Israel.
- The existence of asymptomatic cases warrants consideration for routine screening protocols.
- Travel clinics must educate travelers to the Lake Malawi region about the risk of SH.