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Schistosomiasis
What Is Schistosomiasis?
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection caused by Schistosoma worms, commonly found in freshwater sources in certain regions. The parasite enters the body through the skin when a person comes in contact with contaminated water. It can affect the liver, intestines, bladder, and, in chronic cases, other organs if not treated early.
Causes: How Schistosomiasis Spreads
You can develop schistosomiasis through direct contact with contaminated freshwater, typically in:
- Lakes, ponds, slow-flowing rivers
- Agricultural irrigation systems
- Areas where freshwater snails carrying the parasite live
Symptoms of Schistosomiasis
Early symptoms may appear days or weeks after exposure:
- Itchy rash (“swimmer’s itch”)
- Fever, chills
- Muscle aches and fatigue
If untreated long enough, schistosomiasis can lead to long-term organ damage.
Chronic symptoms occur when the parasite remains untreated:
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Blood in urine or stools
- Liver or spleen enlargement
- Persistent urinary discomfort
Diagnosis at SSRC
Our infectious disease team uses targeted diagnostic tools to detect schistosomiasis early:
- Stool or urine examination for parasite eggs
- Blood tests for Schistosoma antibodies
- Ultrasound to assess liver or bladder involvement, if needed
Treatment Options
Schistosomiasis is treatable, and SSRC provides personalized care plans based on severity and organ involvement. Treatment typically includes:
- Praziquantel, the most effective anti-parasitic medication
- Supportive care for fever, inflammation, or discomfort
- Follow-up monitoring to ensure the infection clears completely
Get Clarity. Get Tested for Schistosomiasis.
At SSRC, we see many such cases—patients unsure of what happened until proper testing reveals a parasitic infection called schistosomiasis. With timely diagnosis and precise treatment, our infectious disease specialists help patients recover safely and prevent long-term complications.
Prevention: How to Protect Yourself
- Avoid swimming or wading in contaminated freshwater in endemic regions
- Use protective boots/gloves when working in irrigation areas
- Drink and use safe, clean water
- Follow travel health advisories before visiting high-risk countries
When to Visit a Doctor at SSRC
- Fever or rash after freshwater exposure
- Blood in urine or stool
- Persistent abdominal or urinary symptoms
- Travel history to endemic areas followed by unexplained illness
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No. It spreads only through freshwater contaminated with the parasite—not person-to-person.
Yes, especially if they swim or play in contaminated water.
Yes. With appropriate medication like praziquantel, most cases resolve fully when treated early.
Symptoms can appear within days or take weeks; some people remain asymptomatic initially.
Chronic cases may lead to liver damage, bladder issues, or long-term intestinal problems.
You must wait until full treatment is completed and cleared by a doctor.
Yes. Children commonly acquire Giardiasis due to closer person-to-person contact and developing hygiene habits.
