Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis

1. Causative Organism - Schistosome

   • 4 Intestinal (Mansoni - Africa & Middle East) (Japonicum - China, Philippines) (Mekongi - Laos, Cambodia) (Guineensis - Rain Forest Central Africa)
   • 1 Urogenital (Haematobium - Africa, Middle East)
     • • Life Cycle of the Schistisome
       • Capable of burrowing into Human skin, Disease caused by Body's Immune reaction to presence of Parasitic eggs, Infected person can transmit via Faeces & Urine, Cercariae can survive in open water for up to 7 days, Adult Worms if untreated remain active for up to 5 years, the female will continue to lay eggs throughout lifespan

2. Symptoms

   • Acute - Weekly Development
     • Symptoms: Flu-like Fever, High Temperature (Above 38oC WHO), Muscle Aches, Headaches, Anemia, Skin Rash ( Red, Blotchy, Raised,"Swimmers Itch"), Sporadic Coughing, Scarring of the Bladder, Lymph Node Enlargement
       • Female Specific: Lesions of the Cervix, Bleeding after Intercourse, Genital Ulcers, Irregular Menstration
   • Chronic - Monthly Development
     • Symptoms: Cystitis, Fatigue, Haematuria (Blood in the Urine), Incontinence, Watery & Bloody Diarrhoea, Vomitting Blood, Paralysis of the Legs (If parasite reaches Central Nervous System)

3. Global Distribution Of Schistosomiasis - World Health Organisation

4. Treatment & Prevention

   • Adult Worms eradicated through medication (Prazquiantel) remnants broken down by the Body
     • Serious Health problems in those who are malnourished or dehydrated. NHS claims 72 reported cases between 2011-2012. 2nd most common disease caused by parasite after Malaria. 243 million cases worldwide; 90% occurrence in Sub-Saharan Africa (WHO)
     • Insect repellent DEET (Diethyltolumide) at 50% concentration immediately kills parasites after exposure
     • Steroid Medication (Corticosteroids) relieve symptoms of acute Schistosomiasis and help control allergic reaction to eggs
     • Prevention: Wearing waterproof clothing, Boil or Filter water before consumption, aim for clear patches of water with minimal vegetation, dry yourself as soon as exiting water

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