Schistosomiasis

Symptoms may occur at the time of exposure or weeks after infection. They may include skin irritation at the site of entry, fever, lethargy, weight loss and blood in urine or bowel movements. Most people do not experience symptoms when initially infected, and it is usually asymptomatic.

Avoid direct contact with fresh water in risk areas. Wear rubber boots if you expect to wade in fresh water. If direct contact occurs, towel-dry your skin vigorously as soon as possible.

Travellers visiting endemic areas should assume all fresh water may be infected. Dams, slow-moving streams, rivers and lakes often pose a high risk, as does showering in water from rivers.

Water free of snails that has been left to stand for three days is safe to drink after it has been boiled, or another effective method of water treatment has been used.

There is no risk in salt water or chlorinated swimming pools.

There is no vaccine to prevent schistosomiasis; however, medications are available to treat the disease. Consult your travel doctor at least three months after potential exposure for a blood test to confirm the diagnosis on your return. Close contacts should be tested if you receive a positive diagnosis.