Schistosomiasis affects millions in Africa. Despite being preventable and treatable, it remains widespread, particularly in rural and impoverished communities. NGOs like Anesvad work for solutions.
Over 200 million people worldwide are affected by Schistosomiasis, most of them in Africa. Chronic infection can lead to anemia, malnutrition, growth retardation in children and long-term organ damage, including liver and kidney complications. In women, urogenital schistosomiasis increases the risk of infertility and susceptibility to HIV. Health systems in affected regions face substantial burdens, as repeated infections require ongoing medical attention and treatment.
What is Schistosomiasis and how it spreads?
Schistosomiasis is caused by parasitic worms of the genus Schistosoma. People become infected when larvae released by freshwater snails penetrate their skin during activities such as bathing, washing clothes or fishing. Once inside the body, the parasites mature and lay eggs, which can damage internal organs and are excreted back into the water, continuing the cycle of infection.
Why Schistosomiasis persists in African communities?
It persists due to environmental and social factors such as poor sanitation, limited access to clean water and inadequate health education. As mentioned, children are particularly vulnerable to this disease. Communities reliant on fishing, agriculture or irrigation are also at higher risk due to frequent water contact. Poverty is usually beside the problem. Many households lack the resources to build latrines or provide safe water alternatives, while health facilities may be too distant or under-resourced to provide treatment.
Environmental and social drivers
Environmental changes such as dam construction, irrigation projects and climate variations have expanded snail habitats, increasing exposure. Social practices, including bathing in rivers and washing clothes in shared water sources, create opportunities for the parasite to infect multiple generations. Without integrated environmental management, treatment alone cannot eliminate the disease.
Responses and what still needs to be done
NGOs and local initiatives are working tirelessly to reduce its impact, but significant challenges remain. Efforts to combat Schistosomiasis in Africa combine medical treatment, community education and environmental interventions. Mass drug administration programs, often supported by NGOs like Anesvad, provide preventive medication to entire communities, significantly reducing infection rates. Public health campaigns encourage safe water practices and sanitation improvements.
However, experts stress that sustainable control requires more: continued investment in clean water infrastructure, snail habitat management, and awareness programs that empower communities to prevent infection. Collaboration between governments, NGOs, and local leaders is essential to break the cycle of disease. With sustained efforts and coordinated action, communities across Africa can envision a future free from this preventable and treatable parasitic threat. You can help us achieving its eradication!
