Transmission control for schistosomiasis - why it matters now.
Current population-based schistosomiasis treatment programs are a first step to reducing the global burden of Schistosoma-related disease; however, they might not dramatically reduce parasite transmission in highly endemic areas. Consequently, the benefits of these programs remain in doubt because recurring low-level reinfection is likely to be associated with subtle but persistent morbidities such as anemia, undernutrition and diminished performance status. The real health benefits of transmission control need to be reconsidered and attention given to more aggressive and, ultimately, more affordable parasite elimination strategies. The next generation of schistosomiasis control can be optimized using new monitoring tools and effective transmission containment.
King
Charles H
CH
Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Wolstein 4126, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106-7286, USA. chk@cwru.edu
Sturrock
Robert F
RF
Kariuki
H Curtis
HC
Hamburger
Joseph
J
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D001700:Biomphalaria / Q000469:parasitology; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D018562:Disease Transmission, Infectious / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004199:Disease Vectors; D019353:Endemic Diseases; D006801:Humans; D007630:Kenya / Q000453:epidemiology; D012424:Rural Population; D012547:Schistosoma / Q000254:growth & development*; D012552:Schistosomiasis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000469:parasitology / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000635:transmission*