Schistosomiasis
Schistosomiasis, or bilharzia, is a parasitic disease caused by trematode flatworms of the genus Schistosoma. Larval forms of the parasites, which are released by freshwater snails, penetrate the skin of people in the water.
In the body, the larvae develop into adult schistosomes, which live in the blood vessels. The females release eggs, some of which are passed out of the body in the urine or faeces. Others are trapped in body tissues, causing an immune reaction.
In urinary schistosomiasis, there is progressive damage to the bladder, ureters and kidneys. In intestinal schistosomiasis, there is progressive enlargement of the liver and spleen, intestinal damage, and hypertension of the abdominal blood vessels.
Control of schistosomiasis is based on drug treatment, snail control, improved sanitation and health education.
TDR related research
TDR supports research on this disease. Our work is being conducted in the following areas:
Latest news
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A call for closer ties to communities
5 March 2013 -
Pipeline grows for neglected diseases research and development (R&D)
4 February 2013
TDR publications and articles
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Research Priorities for Zoonoses and Marginalized Infections
10 September 2012 -
Changing Mindsets: Research Capacity strengthening in low and middle-income countries
1 November 2010 -
A human rights-based approach to neglected tropical diseases
20 February 2009
Disease transmission
Related WHO information
- Fact sheet: Schistosomiasis
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Schistosomiasis poster
pdf, 406kb - Schistosomiasis Control Initiative
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International travel and health
Publication on travel risks, precautions and vaccination requirements