Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis is a tropical disease caused by a parasitic infection with worms from the Schistosomatidae family. About 200 million people are infected with schistosomiasis worldwide. Schistosomiasis can be 'acute' or 'chronic'. Many people do not develop symptoms of acute schistosomiasis, or their symptoms may be mild and go unrecognised. Chronic schistosomiasis can produce symptoms months or years after infection. Diagnosis is usually made by testing your urine or poo (faeces) or through a blood test. Treatment is with a medicine called praziquantel. In those who have not been infected for long, or those without complications, there can be complete recovery after treatment.