Intestinal schistosomiasis and its possible prevention and control.

Project Abstract

Intestinal schistosomiasis is a significant public health concern in many tropical and subtropical regions, caused by parasitic worms of the genus Schistosoma. This neglected tropical disease affects millions of people worldwide, particularly in resource-limited settings with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. The transmission of intestinal schistosomiasis occurs through contact with contaminated freshwater sources harboring the intermediate host snails that release infective larvae. Preventive chemotherapy through mass drug administration with praziquantel has been the cornerstone of schistosomiasis control programs. However, sustainable control of intestinal schistosomiasis requires a multifaceted approach that includes not only treatment but also interventions to reduce transmission and prevent reinfection. Improving access to safe water and adequate sanitation, as well as health education on the importance of avoiding contact with contaminated water, are crucial components of integrated control strategies. In addition to preventive chemotherapy and community-based interventions, innovative strategies such as snail control using molluscicides, biological control agents, or environmental modifications have shown promise in reducing the snail populations and interrupting the schistosome life cycle. Furthermore, the development of a schistosomiasis vaccine could provide a valuable tool for long-term control and elimination efforts. Surveillance and monitoring of intestinal schistosomiasis are essential for assessing the impact of control interventions and guiding decision-making processes. Implementation of sensitive diagnostic tools for detecting Schistosoma infection, such as the Kato-Katz technique and point-of-care rapid diagnostic tests, can help identify high-risk populations and target interventions effectively. Mapping the distribution of schistosomiasis using geospatial tools allows for a spatially targeted approach to control efforts. Community engagement and participation are integral to the success of schistosomiasis prevention and control programs. Involving local communities in decision-making processes, promoting behavior change through health education campaigns, and empowering individuals to take ownership of their health can enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of control efforts. Overall, a comprehensive approach that combines preventive chemotherapy with integrated control strategies, innovative interventions, vaccine development, surveillance, and community participation is essential for the prevention and control of intestinal schistosomiasis. By addressing the complex socioeconomic and environmental factors driving transmission, we can work towards the goal of eliminating this debilitating disease and improving the health and well-being of affected populations.

Project Overview

<p> </p><p><strong>INTRODUCTION</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><ul><li><strong>DESCRIPTION OF SCHISTOMIASIS</strong></li></ul><p>Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia, snail fever, and Katayama fever, is a disease caused by parasiticflatworms of the <em>Schistosoma</em>type. The urinary tract or the intestines may be infected. Signs and symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrhea,(Akpinar, 2012). Bloody stool, or blood in the urine. In those who have been infected a long time, liver damage, kidney failure, infertility, or bladder cancer may occur. In children, it may cause poor growth and learning difficulty(Antoun<em>et al</em>., 2005).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The disease is spread by contact with fresh water contaminated with the parasites. These parasites are released from infected freshwater snails. The disease is especially common among children in developing countries as they are more likely to play in contaminated water(Akpinar, 2012). Other high risk groups include farmers, fishermen, and people using unclean water during daily living. It belongs</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>to the group of helminth infections. Diagnosis is by finding eggs of the parasite in a person’s urine or stool. It can also be confirmed by finding antibodies against the disease in the blood(Duke, 2002).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Methods to prevent the disease include improving access to clean water and reducing the number of snails.(Duke,.2002) In areas where the disease is common, the medication praziquantel may be given once a year to the entire group. This is done to decrease the number of people infected and, consequently, the spread of the disease. Praziquantel is also the treatment recommended by the World Health Organization<strong>(WHO) </strong>for those who are known to be infected(Akpinar, 2012)..</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>(Antoun<em>et al</em>., 2005) Schistosomiasis affected almost 210 million people worldwide as of 2012. An estimated 12,000 to 200,000 people die from it each year. The disease is most commonly found in Africa, as well as Asia and South America. Around 700 million people, in more than 70 countries, live in areas where the disease is common. In tropical countries, schistosomiasis is second only to malaria among parasitic diseases with the greatest economic impact. Schistosomiasis is listed as a neglected tropical disease(Akpinar, 2012).</p><h2>1.1 STUDY AREA</h2><p>This study was carried out at START RIGHT MODEL SCHOOL Sango Ota Ogun State Ado Odo Ota Local Government Area. Schistosomiasis is noticed at this area of Ogun State Nigeria and some neighboring areas including Ado-Odo, Owode, and e.t.c. This is as a result of some factor like;</p><ul><li>Poor drainage system</li><li>Poor waste disposal</li><li>Over flooding etc.</li></ul><h2>1.2 PURPOSE OF STUDY</h2><p>This study focuses on creating awareness to citizen of Sango Ota Ogun State AdoOdo Ota Local Government Area on the presences of intestinal schistosomiasis and its possible prevention and control.</p><h2>1.3 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY</h2><p>The importance of this study is to identify the presences of intestinal schistosomiasis and its possible prevention and control at Sango Ota Ogun State Ado Odo Ota Local Government Area.</p><h2>1.4 SCOPE OF STUDY</h2><p>This research focuses on the prevalence of intestinal Schistosomiasis among pupils in START RIGHT MODELSCHOOL Sango Ota Ogun State AdoOdo Ota Local Government Area and possible prevention and control method.</p><h2>1.5 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY</h2><p>Some of the limitation faced in the course of carrying out this project is:</p><ul><li>Illiteracy of parent in the area</li><li>Poor finance</li><li>Difficulty in the collection of sample</li></ul><h2>1.6 DEFINITION OF TERM</h2><p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><p><strong>Helminths</strong>: are large multicellular organisms, which when mature can generally be seen with the naked eye. They are often referred to as intestinal worms even though not all helminths reside in the intestines; for example schistosomes are not intestinal worms, but rather reside in blood vessels.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Phylogeny: </strong>The phylogenetic relationships of the nematodes and their close relatives among the protostomianMetazoa are unresolved.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Mutualism:</strong>a relationship between two species of organisms in which both benefit from the association.</p><p><strong>Commensalism</strong>: &nbsp; A type of relationship between two species of a plant, animal, fungus, etc., in which one lives with, on, or in another without damage to either.</p><p><strong>Parasitism: </strong>arelationbetweenorganismsinwhichonelivesasaparasiteonanother</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Helminthology</strong>:Helminthology is the study of parasitic worms (helminths), while helminthiasis describes the medical condition of being infected with helminths.</p> <br><p></p>