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Cheruiyot NB, Nagi S, Chadeka AE, Takeuchi R, Sassa M, Felix B, Kobayashi N, Moriyasu T, Masaku J, Okomo G, Ouma C, Njomo D, Njenga SM, Hamano S. Barriers and misconceptions hindering reduction of intestinal schistosomiasis in Mbita Sub-County, Western Kenya. Trop Med Health 2024; 52:38. [PMID: 38745247 PMCID: PMC11092127 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-024-00602-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community and individual participation are crucial for the success of schistosomiasis control. The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the importance of enhanced sanitation, health education, and Mass Drug Administration (MDA) in the fight against schistosomiasis. These approaches rely on the knowledge and practices of the community to be successful; however, where the community knowledge is low and inappropriate, it hinders intervention efforts. Hence, it is essential to identify barriers and misconceptions related to awareness of schistosomiasis, sources of infection, mode of transmission, symptoms, and control measures. METHODS This was a mixed-method cross-sectional study involving 1200 pre-school children randomly selected and examined for Schistosoma mansoni infection using the Kato-Katz technique. All parents/guardians of selected children were enrolled for a pre-tested questionnaire survey, while 42 were engaged in focus group discussions (FGDs). The level of knowledge and awareness among parents/guardians about schistosomiasis was evaluated in relation to the infection status of their pre-school children. RESULTS Among pre-school children, the prevalence of intestinal schistosomiasis was 45.1% (95% CI 41.7-48.5). A majority of parents/guardians (85.5%) had heard about schistosomiasis, and this awareness was associated with the participant's level of education (OR = 0.16, 95% CI 0.08, 0.34). In addition, a positive association was observed between higher educational attainment and knowledge of the causative agent (OR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.49, 0.96). Low education level was significantly associated with limited knowledge of transmission through lake water contact (OR = 0.71, 95% CI 0.52, 0.97) and infection from the lake (OR = 0.33, 95% CI 0.19, 0.57). Notably, parents/guardians who have heard of schistosomiasis could not recognize symptoms of S. mansoni infection, such as abdominal pain (91.8%, 815/888) and blood in the stool (85.1%, 756/888). Surprisingly, 49.8% (442/888) incorrectly identified hematuria (blood in urine), a key sign of S. haematobium, but not S. mansoni, in an endemic area for S. mansoni infection. The majority (82.6%, 734/888) of parents/guardians were unaware that dams are potential infection sites, despite 53.9% (479/888) of their pre-school-aged children testing positive for schistosome infection. CONCLUSIONS Despite the high level of awareness of intestinal schistosomiasis in the study area, we identified a low level of knowledge regarding its causes, modes of transmission, signs and symptoms and potential sites of transmission within the community. This study emphasizes the need for targeted educational interventions to address the misconceptions and knowledge gaps surrounding intestinal schistosomiasis through tailored community-based programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngetich B Cheruiyot
- Nagasaki University, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NUITM): Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Project, P O Box 19993-00202, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sachiyo Nagi
- Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-Machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-0054, Japan.
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan.
| | - Asena E Chadeka
- Nagasaki University, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NUITM): Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Project, P O Box 19993-00202, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rie Takeuchi
- Nagasaki University, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NUITM): Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Project, P O Box 19993-00202, Nairobi, Kenya
- Graduate School of Public Health, International University of Health and Welfare, 4-3, Kodunomori, Narita, Chiba, 286-8686, Japan
| | - Miho Sassa
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
- Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Bahati Felix
- Nagasaki University, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NUITM): Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Project, P O Box 19993-00202, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Noriko Kobayashi
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Taeko Moriyasu
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Janet Masaku
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control (ESACIPAC), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Gordon Okomo
- Department of Health Services, County Government of Homa Bay, Homa Bay, Kenya
| | - Collins Ouma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, School of Public Health and Community Development, Maseno University, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Doris Njomo
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control (ESACIPAC), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sammy M Njenga
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control (ESACIPAC), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Shinjiro Hamano
- Nagasaki University, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NUITM): Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Project, P O Box 19993-00202, Nairobi, Kenya.
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan.
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Shehab AY, Allam AF, Saad AAEK, Osman MM, Ibrahim HS, Moneer EA, Tolba MM. Proposed morbidity markers among Schistosoma mansoni patients. Trop Parasitol 2023; 13:40-45. [PMID: 37415754 PMCID: PMC10321587 DOI: 10.4103/tp.tp_46_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Fecal calprotectin (FC) and fecal occult blood (FOB) were suggested as potential inflammatory markers for assessing intestinal schistosomiasis morbidity that are conventionally detected through invasive methods. Aim and Objectives The present work aimed to evaluate FC and FOB as morbidity markers of Schistosoma mansoni infection before and after praziquantel treatment. Materials and Methods A total of 205 stool samples (117 schoolchildren and 88 adults) were collected and examined by Kato Katz. A questionnaire enquiring about diarrhea, history of blood in stool, and abdominal pain was designed and applied. Results S. mansoni prevalence rates were 20.5% and 11.36% among children and adults, respectively; the majority of cases had light infection intensity. FC and FOB were studied among 25 cured S. mansoni cases (17 children and 8 adults) pre and one-month post treatment. Before treatment, six and four children of moderate and high S. mansoni infection intensity tested positive for FC and FOB, respectively, all turning negative after treatment. FC showed borderline statistical significance before and after treatment among children. However, all adults tested negative for FC and FOB. Conclusion FC and FOB could be possibly used as morbidity monitoring tools for S. mansoni infection in children with moderate and high infection intensity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amel Youssef Shehab
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, University of Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Amal Farahat Allam
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, University of Alexandria, Egypt
| | | | - Mervat Mostafa Osman
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, University of Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Heba Said Ibrahim
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, University of Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Esraa Abdelhamid Moneer
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Applied Health Sciences Technology, Pharos University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mona Mohamed Tolba
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, University of Alexandria, Egypt
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Miranda GS, Rodrigues JGM, de Rezende MC, Resende SD, Camelo GMA, de Oliveira Silva JKA, Maggi L, Rodrigues VF, de Oliveira VG, Negrão-Corrêa DA. Experimental infection with Schistosoma mansoni isolated from the wild rodent Holochilus sciureus shows a low parasite burden but induces high schistosomiasis severity in BALB/c mice. Parasitology 2022; 149:1381-1396. [PMID: 35641335 PMCID: PMC11010505 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182022000774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Wild mammals, especially rodents, can participate in the life cycle of Schistosoma mansoni; however, the impact of these parasite strains on the severity of schistosomiasis remains unclear. The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate the parasitological and immunopathological alterations induced by an S. mansoni strain isolated from the wild rodent Holochilus sciureus (HS strain) and a parasite strain isolated from a human (LE strain) in experimentally infected mice. Male BALB/c mice were subcutaneously infected with 50 cercariae/mouse of either the HS or the LE strain and were evaluated for 12 weeks. In the experimental groups, the parasite burden was estimated by worm and egg (feces and tissues) count, and immunopathological alterations were evaluated in the liver and intestines. Compared to experimental infection with the LE parasite strain, HS-infected mice showed reduced number of parasite worms but higher fecundity rate, significant reduction in IL-5, IL-10 and IL-13 concentrations, lower EPO-activity in liver homogenate and higher concentrations of TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-12 and IL-17 in the small intestine homogenate. Moreover, HS infection resulted in higher concentrations of NO end-products in both the liver and intestine, suggesting a predominance of the Th1/Th17 immune response. HS-infected mice also showed higher plasma transaminase levels, formed larger granulomas, and had a higher mortality rate in comparison with LE-infected mice. Data indicate that BALB/c mice infected with the HS strain of S. mansoni showed reduced susceptibility to the parasite but stronger tissue inflammation and high disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Silva Miranda
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Institute of Biological Sciences, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Department of Biology, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Maranhão, São Raimundo das Mangabeiras, Brazil
| | - João Gustavo Mendes Rodrigues
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Institute of Biological Sciences, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Michelle Carvalho de Rezende
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Institute of Biological Sciences, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Samira Diniz Resende
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Institute of Biological Sciences, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Genil Mororó Araújo Camelo
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Institute of Biological Sciences, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Laura Maggi
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Institute of Biological Sciences, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Fernandes Rodrigues
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Institute of Biological Sciences, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Vinícius Gustavo de Oliveira
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Institute of Biological Sciences, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Patel C, Keller L, Welsche S, Hattendorf J, Sayasone S, Ali SM, Ame SM, Coulibaly JT, Hürlimann E, Keiser J. Assessment of fecal calprotectin and fecal occult blood as point-of-care markers for soil-transmitted helminth attributable intestinal morbidity in a case-control substudy conducted in Côte d'Ivoire, Lao PDR and Pemba Island, Tanzania. EClinicalMedicine 2021; 32:100724. [PMID: 33554091 PMCID: PMC7851339 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2021.100724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infections with soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) may result in chronic inflammatory disorders affecting the human host. The objective of this study was to evaluate Fecal Calprotectin (FC) and Fecal Occult Blood (FOB) in individuals infected and non-infected with STHs to identify potential intestinal morbidity markers. METHODS Stool from participants diagnosed positive for Trichuris trichiura and concomitant STH infections from three countries was used to perform FC and FOB point-of-care assays. Simultaneously, identified STH negative participants underwent FC and FOB testing as controls. Potential associations between test results and determinants were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression. FINDINGS In total, 1034 T. trichiura infected cases (mostly light infections) and 157 STH negative controls were tested for FC and FOB. Among all participants tested, 18·5% had ≥ 50 µg/g FC concentration, while 14 (1·2%) were positive for FOB. No statistically significant association was found between T. trichiura infection or Ascaris lumbricoides co-infection and FC concentration, while an inverse association (odds ratio (OR): 0·45, 95% credible intervals (CrI): 0·26, 0·75) was found between hookworm co-infection and FC concentration. In Lao PDR, the proportion of participants in the ≥ 50 µg/g FC category was significantly higher in the oldest age category compared to the 5-11 years group (OR: 3·31, 95% CrI: 1·62, 7·24). Too few participants were found positive for FOB to derive any conclusions. INTERPRETATION Studies are needed to better understand the relationship between intestinal morbidity and STH infections. Suitable, standardized, low-cost markers of STH attributable morbidity to better monitor the impact of STH control interventions are necessary. FUNDING BMGF (OPP1153928).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandni Patel
- Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ladina Keller
- Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sophie Welsche
- Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jan Hattendorf
- Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Somphou Sayasone
- Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of International Program for Health in the Tropics, Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Said M. Ali
- Public Health Laboratory Ivo de Carneri, Chake Chake, Pemba, Zanzibar, Tanzania
| | - Shaali M. Ame
- Public Health Laboratory Ivo de Carneri, Chake Chake, Pemba, Zanzibar, Tanzania
| | - Jean Tenena Coulibaly
- Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche Biosciences, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
- Department of Research and Development, Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d'Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Eveline Hürlimann
- Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Smith C, McLachlan G, Al Shehri H, Adriko M, Arinaitwe M, Atuhaire A, Muheki Tukahebwa E, LaCourse EJ, Stanton M, Stothard JR, Bustinduy AL. Schistosoma mansoni Infection as a Predictor of Low Aerobic Capacity in Ugandan Children. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2019; 100:1498-1506. [PMID: 30994097 PMCID: PMC6553905 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.18-0922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Using the 20-meter shuttle run test (20mSRT) as a morbidity metric, we assessed whether Schistosoma mansoni infection was associated with decreased aerobic capacity in Ugandan children across a range of altitudes, either at low (∼600 m) or high (∼1,000 m) altitudes. A total of 305 children were recruited from six schools within the Buliisa District, Lake Albert, Uganda. A subset (n = 96) of these had been previously assessed and treated for schistosomiasis ± malaria 2 weeks prior. Fitness scores on the 20mSRT were translated into VO2max using a standardized equation. Unadjusted and multivariable-adjusted analyses were performed using VO2max as the primary outcome. Analysis of fitness scores from 304 children, inclusive of the subset follow-up cohort, revealed a median VO2max of 45.4 mL kg-1 min-1 (interquartile range: 42.9-48.0 mL kg-1 min-1). Children residing at high altitudes demonstrated increased aerobic capacities (46.3 versus 44.8 mL kg-1 min-1, P = 0.031). The prevalence of stunting, wasting, S. mansoni egg patent infection, malaria, giardiasis, anemia, and fecal occult blood were 36.7%, 16.1%, 44.3%, 65.2%, 21.4%, 50.6%, and 41.2%, respectively. Median VO2max was elevated in those previously treated, compared with those newly recruited (46.3 versus 44 mL kg-1 min-1, P < 0.001). Multivariable-adjusted analysis revealed a strong negative association between S. mansoni egg patent infection and VO2max at low altitude (beta coefficient: -3.96, 95% CI: -6.56 to -137, P = 0.004). This is the first study to document a negative association between S. mansoni infection and aerobic capacity at low altitudes using the 20mSRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Smith
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Georgia McLachlan
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Hajri Al Shehri
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Moses Adriko
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses Arinaitwe
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Aaron Atuhaire
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - E. James LaCourse
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle Stanton
- Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - J. Russell Stothard
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Amaya L. Bustinduy
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Schistosomiasis affects over 200 million people worldwide, most of whom are children. Research and control strategies directed at preschool-aged children (PSAC), i.e., ≤5 years old, have lagged behind those in older children and adults. With the recent WHO revision of the schistosomiasis treatment guidelines to include PSAC, and the recognition of gaps in our current knowledge on the disease and its treatment in this age group, there is now a concerted effort to address these shortcomings. Global and national schistosome control strategies are yet to include PSAC in treatment schedules. Maximum impact of schistosome treatment programmes will be realised through effective treatment of PSAC. In this review, we (i) discuss the current knowledge on the dynamics and consequences of paediatric schistosomiasis and (ii) identify knowledge and policy gaps relevant to these areas and to the successful control of schistosome infection and disease in this age group. Herein, we highlight risk factors, immune mechanisms, pathology, and optimal timing for screening, diagnosis, and treatment of paediatric schistosomiasis. We also discuss the tools required for treating schistosomiasis in PSAC and strategies for accessing them for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derick N. M. Osakunor
- Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Mark E. J. Woolhouse
- Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa (TIBA), University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Francisca Mutapi
- Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa (TIBA), University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Friedman JF, Olveda RM, Mirochnick MH, Bustinduy AL, Elliott AM. Praziquantel for the treatment of schistosomiasis during human pregnancy. Bull World Health Organ 2017; 96:59-65. [PMID: 29403101 PMCID: PMC5791873 DOI: 10.2471/blt.17.198879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In 2014, an estimated 40 million women of reproductive age were infected with Schistosoma haematobium, S. japonicum and/or S. mansoni. In both 2003 and 2006, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended that all schistosome-infected pregnant and breastfeeding women be offered treatment, with praziquantel, either individually or during treatment campaigns. In 2006, WHO also stated the need for randomized controlled trials to assess the safety and efficacy of such treatment. Some countries have yet to follow the recommendation on treatment and many programme managers and pregnant women in other countries remain reluctant to follow the recommended approach. Since 2006, two randomized controlled trials on the use of praziquantel during pregnancy have been conducted: one against S. mansoni in Uganda and the other against S. japonicum in the Philippines. In these trials, praziquantel treatment of pregnant women had no significant effect on birth weight, appeared safe and caused minimal side-effects that were similar to those seen in treated non-pregnant subjects. Having summarized the encouraging data, on efficacy, pharmacokinetics and safety, from these two trials and reviewed the safety data from non-interventional human studies, we recommend that all countries include pregnant women in praziquantel treatment campaigns. We identify the barriers to the treatment of pregnant women, in countries that already include such women in individual treatments and mass drug administration campaigns, and discuss ways to address these barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer F Friedman
- Center for International Health Research at Rhode Island Hospital, 55 Claverick Street, Suite 101, Providence, RI 02903, United States of America (USA)
| | - Remigio M Olveda
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Mark H Mirochnick
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Amaya L Bustinduy
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England
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Nakamura I, Yagi K, Kumagai T, Ohta N. Positive fecal occult blood test as a diagnostic cue for Schistosoma mansoni infection in a developed country. IDCases 2017; 10:108-109. [PMID: 29124010 PMCID: PMC5671391 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The rise in eco-tourism and travel off the beaten track have increased numbers of tourists with schistosomiasis which is seldom seen in developed countries, although this disease is considered a neglected tropical disease especially in poor communities. A Guinean male living in Japan was seen complaining of severe constipation. He was positive for fecal occult blood (FOB) and underwent colonoscopy. Colonoscopy showed petechiae of the rectal mucosa, with pathologic examination of biopsy tissue showing calcified eggs of the genus Schistosoma. Direct examination of eggs in feces and antibody tests of serum confirmed the diagnosis of schistosomiasis. The patient was administered Praziquantel (400 mg/day for 2 days) and FOB and fecal ova tests were negative after treatment. FOB tests have been reported as a useful assessment of morbidities associated with intestinal schistosomiasis. In developed countries, positive FOB result, which is used as a main examination for bowel malignant disease, are not recognized as being due to schistosomiasis. As this tropical disease is rarely present in developed countries, it may be under-diagnosed. Schistosomiasis should be included in the differential diagnosis of patients with positive FOB tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itaru Nakamura
- Departments of Infection Prevention and Control, Tokyo Medical University Hospital, Tokyo, 162-0845, Japan
| | - Kenji Yagi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Kumagai
- Environmental Parasitology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuo Ohta
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Health Science, Suzuka University of Medical Science
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Won KY, Kanyi HM, Mwende FM, Wiegand RE, Goodhew EB, Priest JW, Lee YM, Njenga SM, Secor WE, Lammie PJ, Odiere MR. Multiplex Serologic Assessment of Schistosomiasis in Western Kenya: Antibody Responses in Preschool Aged Children as a Measure of Reduced Transmission. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2017; 96:1460-1467. [PMID: 28719280 PMCID: PMC5462587 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.16-0665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, impact of schistosomiasis control programs in Schistosoma mansoni–endemic areas is monitored primarily by assessment of parasitologic indicators only. Our study was conducted to evaluate the use of antibody responses as a way to measure the impact of schistosomiasis control programs. A total of 3,612 serum samples collected at three time points from children 1–5 years of age were tested for antibody responses to two schistosome antigens (soluble egg antigen [SEA] and Sm25) by multiplex bead assay. The overall prevalence of antibody responses to SEA was high at baseline (50.0%). After one round of mass drug administration (MDA), there was minimal change in odds of SEA positivity (odds ratio [OR] = 1.02, confidence interval [CI] = 0.79–1.32, P = 0.89). However, after two rounds of treatment, there was a slight decrease in odds of SEA positivity (OR = 0.80, CI = 0.63–1.02, P = 0.08). In contrast to the SEA results, prevalence of antibody responses to Sm25 was lowest at baseline (14.1%) and higher in years 2 (19.8%) and 3 (18.4%). After one round of MDA, odds of Sm25 positivity increased significantly (OR = 1.51, CI = 1.14–2.02, P = 0.005) and remained significantly higher than baseline after two rounds of MDA (OR = 1.37, CI = 1.07–1.76, P = 0.01). There was a significant decrease in the proportion of 1-year-olds with positive SEA responses from 33.1% in year 1 to 13.2% in year 3 and a corresponding decrease in the odds (OR = 3.25, CI = 1.75–6.08, P < 0.001). These results provide preliminary evidence that schistosomiasis program impact can be monitored using serologic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Y Won
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Henry M Kanyi
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Faith M Mwende
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ryan E Wiegand
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - E Brook Goodhew
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jeffrey W Priest
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Yeuk-Mui Lee
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sammy M Njenga
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - W Evan Secor
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Patrick J Lammie
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Maurice R Odiere
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
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Andrade G, Bertsch DJ, Gazzinelli A, King CH. Decline in infection-related morbidities following drug-mediated reductions in the intensity of Schistosoma infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005372. [PMID: 28212414 PMCID: PMC5333910 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Since 1984, WHO has endorsed drug treatment to reduce Schistosoma infection and its consequent morbidity. Cross-sectional studies suggest pre-treatment correlation between infection intensity and risk for Schistosoma-related pathology. However, evidence also suggests that post-treatment reduction in intensity may not reverse morbidity because some morbidities occur at all levels of infection, and some reflect permanent tissue damage. The aim of this project was to systematically review evidence on drug-based control of schistosomiasis and to develop a quantitative estimate of the impact of post-treatment reductions in infection intensity on prevalence of infection-associated morbidity. Methodology/Principal findings This review was registered at inception with PROSPERO (CRD42015026080). Studies that evaluated morbidity before and after treatment were identified by online searches and searches of private archives. Post-treatment odds ratios or standardized mean differences were calculated for each outcome, and these were correlated to treatment-related egg count reduction ratios (ERRs) by meta-regression. A greater ERR correlated with greater reduction in odds of most morbidities. Random effects meta-analysis was used to derive summary estimates: after treatment of S. mansoni and S. japonicum, left-sided hepatomegaly was reduced by 54%, right-sided hepatomegaly by 47%, splenomegaly by 37%, periportal fibrosis by 52%, diarrhea by 53%, and blood in stools by 75%. For S. haematobium, hematuria was reduced by 92%, proteinuria by 90%, bladder lesions by 86%, and upper urinary tract lesions by 72%. There were no consistent changes in portal dilation or hemoglobin levels. In sub-group analysis, age, infection status, region, parasite species, and interval to follow-up were associated with meaningful differences in outcome. Conclusion/Significance While there are challenges to implementing therapy for schistosomiasis, and praziquantel therapy is not fully curative, reductions in egg output are significantly correlated with decreased morbidity and can be used to project diminution in disease burden when contemplating more aggressive strategies to minimize infection intensity. Schistosomiasis is the disease caused by infection with Schistosoma parasitic flukes. Depending on the infecting species, chronic Schistosoma infection can cause a variety of pathologies including liver and spleen enlargement, fibrosis and hypertension of the portal vein of the liver, or bladder ulceration and deformities and kidney blockage. Infection can also cause anemia, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and decreased physical fitness. In our study, we quantified the reductions in prevalence of infection-related morbidities among populations with Schistosoma infection, as achieved by giving one or more drug treatments. We systematically reviewed 71 available reports of Schistosoma-related morbidity reduction and determined, based on a meta-analysis of the primary data, that the odds of persisting morbidity progressively decrease when greater post-treatment reductions in parasite burden are achieved, as reflected by reduced egg counts in standard diagnostic testing. This suggests that repeated or more effective anti-parasite drug treatment will be a valuable tool for greater reduction of Schistosoma-related patient morbidities in affected areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisele Andrade
- Escola de Enfermagem, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - David J. Bertsch
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Andrea Gazzinelli
- Escola de Enfermagem, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Doenças Tropicais (INCT-DT), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Charles H. King
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- Schistosomiasis Consortium for Operational Research and Evaluation, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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11
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Olveda RM, Acosta LP, Tallo V, Baltazar PI, Lesiguez JLS, Estanislao GG, Ayaso EB, Monterde DBS, Ida A, Watson N, McDonald EA, Wu HW, Kurtis JD, Friedman JF. Efficacy and safety of praziquantel for the treatment of human schistosomiasis during pregnancy: a phase 2, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2016; 16:199-208. [PMID: 26511959 PMCID: PMC4752899 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(15)00345-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2015] [Revised: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite WHO recommendations to offer pregnant women treatment with praziquantel, many nations continue to withhold treatment, awaiting data from controlled trials addressing safety and efficacy. The objectives of this study were to assess whether treatment of pregnant women with schistosomiasis at 12-16 weeks gestation leads to improved maternal and newborn outcomes and to collect maternal and newborn safety data. METHODS This phase 2, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was done in 72 baranguays (villages) serviced by six municipal health centres in a schistosomiasis endemic region of northeastern Leyte, Philippines. Pregnant women (at 12-16 weeks gestation) who were otherwise healthy but infected with Schistosoma japonicum were enrolled and randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either over-encapsulated praziquantel (total dose 60 mg/kg given as two split doses) or placebo. Participants, investigators, midwives, and laboratory staff were all masked to treatment. The primary outcome was birthweight. Safety data were collected including immediate reactogenicity, post-dosing toxicology ascertained 24 h after study drug administration, and maternal and newborn serious adverse events. Analysis followed the intention-to-treat principle. Analyses were done using hierarchical generalised linear models to adjust for identified confounders and account for potential clustering of observations within villages and municipalities. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00486863. FINDINGS Between Aug 13, 2007, and Dec 3, 2012, 370 pregnant women were enrolled and randomly assigned to each treatment group (184 to the placebo group, 186 to the praziquantel group). Most women had low-intensity infections (n=334, 90%). Treatment with praziquantel did not have a significant effect on birthweight (2·85 kg in both groups, β=-0·002 [95% CI -0·088 to 0·083]; p=0·962). Treatment was well tolerated with reactogenicity rates similar to those seen in non-pregnant participants (severe reactions occurred in five patients in the praziquantel group and two in the placebo group, and included headache, fever, and malaise). There were no significant differences in key safety outcomes including abortion, fetal death in utero, and congenital anomalies. INTERPRETATION Results from this study provide important data from a controlled trial in support of the expansion of treatment policies to include pregnant women as recommended by WHO. FUNDING National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (U01AI066050).
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Affiliation(s)
- Remigio M Olveda
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Luz P Acosta
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Veronica Tallo
- Department of Epidemiology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Palmera I Baltazar
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jenny Lind S Lesiguez
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines; Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Hospital, Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines
| | - Georgette G Estanislao
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines; Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Hospital, Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines
| | - Edna B Ayaso
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines; Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Hospital, Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines
| | - Donna Bella S Monterde
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines; Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Hospital, Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines
| | - Antonio Ida
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Emily A McDonald
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Hannah W Wu
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jonathan D Kurtis
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jennifer F Friedman
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, RI, USA.
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12
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Influence of Schistosoma mansoni and Hookworm Infection Intensities on Anaemia in Ugandan Villages. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0004193. [PMID: 26513151 PMCID: PMC4626098 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The association of anaemia with intestinal schistosomiasis and hookworm infections are poorly explored in populations that are not limited to children or pregnant women. METHODS We sampled 1,832 individuals aged 5-90 years from 30 communities in Mayuge District, Uganda. Demographic, village, and parasitological data were collected. Infection risk factors were compared in ordinal logistic regressions. Anaemia and infection intensities were analyzed in multilevel models, and population attributable fractions were estimated. FINDINGS Household and village-level predictors of Schistosoma mansoni and hookworm were opposite in direction or significant for single infections. S. mansoni was found primarily in children, whereas hookworm was prevalent amongst the elderly. Anaemia was more prevalent in individuals with S. mansoni and increased by 2.86 fold (p-value<0.001) with heavy S. mansoni infection intensity. Individuals with heavy hookworm were 1.65 times (p-value = 0.008) more likely to have anaemia than uninfected participants. Amongst individuals with heavy S. mansoni infection intensity, 32.0% (p-value<0.001) of anaemia could be attributed to S. mansoni. For people with heavy hookworm infections, 23.7% (p-value = 0.002) of anaemia could be attributed to hookworm. A greater fraction of anaemia (24.9%, p-value = 0.002) was attributable to heavy hookworm infections in adults (excluding pregnant women) as opposed to heavy hookworm infections in school-aged children and pregnant women (20.2%, p-value = 0.001). CONCLUSION Community-based surveys captured anaemia in children and adults affected by S. mansoni and hookworm infections. For areas endemic with schistosomiasis or hookworm infections, WHO guidelines should include adults for treatment in helminth control programmes.
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13
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Sousa-Figueiredo JC, Stanton MC, Katokele S, Arinaitwe M, Adriko M, Balfour L, Reiff M, Lancaster W, Noden BH, Bock R, Stothard JR. Mapping of Schistosomiasis and Soil-Transmitted Helminths in Namibia: The First Large-Scale Protocol to Formally Include Rapid Diagnostic Tests. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015. [PMID: 26196386 PMCID: PMC4509651 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Namibia is now ready to begin mass drug administration of praziquantel and albendazole against schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminths, respectively. Although historical data identifies areas of transmission of these neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), there is a need to update epidemiological data. For this reason, Namibia adopted a new protocol for mapping of schistosomiasis and geohelminths, formally integrating rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for infections and morbidity. In this article, we explain the protocol in detail, and introduce the concept of ‘mapping resolution’, as well as present results and treatment recommendations for northern Namibia. Methods/Findings/Interpretation This new protocol allowed a large sample to be surveyed (N = 17 896 children from 299 schools) at relatively low cost (7 USD per person mapped) and very quickly (28 working days). All children were analysed by RDTs, but only a sub-sample was also diagnosed by light microscopy. Overall prevalence of schistosomiasis in the surveyed areas was 9.0%, highly associated with poorer access to potable water (OR = 1.5, P<0.001) and defective (OR = 1.2, P<0.001) or absent sanitation infrastructure (OR = 2.0, P<0.001). Overall prevalence of geohelminths, more particularly hookworm infection, was 12.2%, highly associated with presence of faecal occult blood (OR = 1.9, P<0.001). Prevalence maps were produced and hot spots identified to better guide the national programme in drug administration, as well as targeted improvements in water, sanitation and hygiene. The RDTs employed (circulating cathodic antigen and microhaematuria for Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium, respectively) performed well, with sensitivities above 80% and specificities above 95%. Conclusion/Significance This protocol is cost-effective and sensitive to budget limitations and the potential economic and logistical strains placed on the national Ministries of Health. Here we present a high resolution map of disease prevalence levels, and treatment regimens are recommended. Historical data indicates Namibia, particularly northern Namibia, as endemic for geohelminths and schistosomiasis, albeit to a lower extent than other areas in Sub-Saharan Africa. The National Ministry of Health and Social Services, with extensive backing from other governmental and non-governmental organizations, investigated the extent of the problem in preparation for deployment of a control programme. Using a cost-effective strategy, a new generation protocol was developed for mapping these important neglected tropical diseases, bolstering field-standard microscopy results with those from commercially available rapid diagnostic tests. The protocol used increased the mapping coverage (one in every four schools mapped) with minimal added cost. Results from our surveys, which included 17 896 school-going children (3–19 years of age), identified hotspots of transmission for schistosomiasis and geohelminths, particularly hookworm infection, and allowed the recommendation of constituency- and region- specific treatment regimens, as well as improvements to water, sanitation and hygiene. Furthermore, we identified high levels of intestinal morbidity, believed to be associated with hookworm and Hymenolepis nana infections, and lower levels of urogenital pathology, associated with Schistosoma haematobium infection. A cost-effectiveness analysis is also presented in addition to reporting the diagnostic accuracy of the rapid diagnostic tests employed.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Carlos Sousa-Figueiredo
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Angola (Health Research Center in Angola), Rua direita do Caxito, Hospital Provincial, Bengo, Angola
- Department of Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, Wolfson Wellcome Biomedical Laboratories, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle C. Stanton
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Stark Katokele
- Namibia Ministry of Health and Social Services, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Moses Arinaitwe
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses Adriko
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lexi Balfour
- The END Fund, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Mark Reiff
- The END Fund, New York, New York, United States of America
| | | | - Bruce H. Noden
- Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Ronnie Bock
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - J. Russell Stothard
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Davis SM, Wiegand RE, Mulama F, Kareko EI, Harris R, Ochola E, Samuels AM, Rawago F, Mwinzi PM, Fox LM, Odiere MR, Won KY. Morbidity associated with schistosomiasis before and after treatment in young children in Rusinga Island, western Kenya. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2015; 92:952-8. [PMID: 25758651 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.14-0346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosoma mansoni infection is a major cause of organomegaly and ultimately liver fibrosis in adults. Morbidity in pre-school-aged children is less defined, and they are currently not included in mass drug administration (MDA) programs for schistosomiasis control. We report results of a study of the association of schistosomiasis with organomegaly in a convenience sample of 201 children under 7 years old in Rusinga, Kenya on two cross-sectional visits, before and after praziquantel treatment. Data included stool examination and serology for schistosomiasis, the Niamey ultrasound protocol to stage hepatosplenic morbidity including organomegaly, and potential confounders including malaria. Unadjusted and adjusted Poisson regressions were performed. The baseline prevalence of schistosomiasis by antibody and/or stool was 80.3%. Schistomiasis was associated with hepatomegaly (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 1.4; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.0-2.1) and splenomegaly (aPR = 2.1; 95% CI: 1.2-3.7). The association with hepatomegaly persisted posttreatment (aPR = 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1-1.6). Schistosomiasis was associated with morbidity in this cohort. Efforts to include young children in mass treatment campaigns should intensify.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M Davis
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Data Management Activity, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Kisumu, Kenya; Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Radiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth University, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Ryan E Wiegand
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Data Management Activity, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Kisumu, Kenya; Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Radiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth University, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Fridah Mulama
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Data Management Activity, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Kisumu, Kenya; Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Radiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth University, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Edmund Ireri Kareko
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Data Management Activity, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Kisumu, Kenya; Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Radiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth University, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Robert Harris
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Data Management Activity, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Kisumu, Kenya; Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Radiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth University, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Elizabeth Ochola
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Data Management Activity, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Kisumu, Kenya; Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Radiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth University, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Aaron M Samuels
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Data Management Activity, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Kisumu, Kenya; Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Radiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth University, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Fredrick Rawago
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Data Management Activity, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Kisumu, Kenya; Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Radiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth University, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Pauline M Mwinzi
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Data Management Activity, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Kisumu, Kenya; Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Radiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth University, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - LeAnne M Fox
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Data Management Activity, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Kisumu, Kenya; Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Radiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth University, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Maurice R Odiere
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Data Management Activity, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Kisumu, Kenya; Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Radiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth University, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Kimberly Y Won
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Data Management Activity, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Kisumu, Kenya; Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Radiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth University, Hanover, New Hampshire
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15
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Diagnostics for schistosomiasis in Africa and Arabia: a review of present options in control and future needs for elimination. Parasitology 2014; 141:1947-61. [PMID: 25158604 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182014001152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Within the World Health Organization 2012-2020 roadmap for control and elimination of schistosomiasis, the scale-up of mass drug administration with praziquantel is set to change the epidemiological landscape across Africa and Arabia. Central in measuring progress is renewed emphasis upon diagnostics which operate at individual, community and environmental levels by assessing reductions in disease, infections and parasite transmission. However, a fundamental tension is revealed between levels for present diagnostic tools, and methods applied in control settings are not necessarily adequate for application in elimination scenarios. Indeed navigating the transition from control to elimination needs careful consideration and planning. In the present context of control, we review current options for diagnosis of schistosomiasis at different levels, highlighting several strengths and weaknesses therein. Future challenges in elimination are raised and we propose that more cost-effective diagnostics and clinical staging algorithms are needed. Using the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a contemporary example, embedding new diagnostic methods within the primary care health system is discussed with reference to both urogenital and intestinal schistosomiasis.
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Abstract
Human schistosomiasis--or bilharzia--is a parasitic disease caused by trematode flukes of the genus Schistosoma. By conservative estimates, at least 230 million people worldwide are infected with Schistosoma spp. Adult schistosome worms colonise human blood vessels for years, successfully evading the immune system while excreting hundreds to thousands of eggs daily, which must either leave the body in excreta or become trapped in nearby tissues. Trapped eggs induce a distinct immune-mediated granulomatous response that causes local and systemic pathological effects ranging from anaemia, growth stunting, impaired cognition, and decreased physical fitness, to organ-specific effects such as severe hepatosplenism, periportal fibrosis with portal hypertension, and urogenital inflammation and scarring. At present, preventive public health measures in endemic regions consist of treatment once every 1 or 2 years with the isoquinolinone drug, praziquantel, to suppress morbidity. In some locations, elimination of transmission is now the goal; however, more sensitive diagnostics are needed in both the field and clinics, and integrated environmental and health-care management will be needed to ensure elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Colley
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Disease & Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
| | - Amaya L Bustinduy
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Liverpool, UK
| | - W Evan Secor
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Charles H King
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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17
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Colley DG, Bustinduy AL, Secor WE, King CH. Human schistosomiasis. Lancet 2014. [PMID: 24698483 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(13)619492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Human schistosomiasis--or bilharzia--is a parasitic disease caused by trematode flukes of the genus Schistosoma. By conservative estimates, at least 230 million people worldwide are infected with Schistosoma spp. Adult schistosome worms colonise human blood vessels for years, successfully evading the immune system while excreting hundreds to thousands of eggs daily, which must either leave the body in excreta or become trapped in nearby tissues. Trapped eggs induce a distinct immune-mediated granulomatous response that causes local and systemic pathological effects ranging from anaemia, growth stunting, impaired cognition, and decreased physical fitness, to organ-specific effects such as severe hepatosplenism, periportal fibrosis with portal hypertension, and urogenital inflammation and scarring. At present, preventive public health measures in endemic regions consist of treatment once every 1 or 2 years with the isoquinolinone drug, praziquantel, to suppress morbidity. In some locations, elimination of transmission is now the goal; however, more sensitive diagnostics are needed in both the field and clinics, and integrated environmental and health-care management will be needed to ensure elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Colley
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Disease & Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
| | - Amaya L Bustinduy
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Liverpool, UK
| | - W Evan Secor
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Charles H King
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Poole H, Terlouw DJ, Naunje A, Mzembe K, Stanton M, Betson M, Lalloo DG, Stothard JR. Schistosomiasis in pre-school-age children and their mothers in Chikhwawa district, Malawi with notes on characterization of schistosomes and snails. Parasit Vectors 2014; 7:153. [PMID: 24690282 PMCID: PMC4230191 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-7-153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 03/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To complement ongoing schistosomiasis control within national control programmes (NCPs) that administer praziquantel to school-age children, assessing the risk and extent of schistosomiasis in pre-school-age children (PSAC) is important. METHODS In June 2012, schistosomiasis in Chikhwawa district, Malawi was assessed across 12 villages examining pre-school-age children (PSAC) and their mothers by serological and parasitological diagnosis, as supplemented with urine-antigen and questionnaire-interview methods. Urinary tract morbidity was inferred by haematuria and albuminuria assays. RESULTS In total, 49.5% (CI₉₅ 42.6-56.4) of 208 PSAC and 94.5% (CI₉₅ 90.9-98.1) of 165 mothers were seropositive for schistosomiasis, in 2 villages seroprevalence exceeded 75% in PSAC. Egg-patent urogenital and intestinal schistosomiasis was observed; 17.7% (CI₉₅ 12.4-23.2) of PSAC and 45.1% (CI₉₅ 37.4-52.8) of mothers having active schistosomiasis by parasitological and urine-antigen testing combined. PSAC often had extensive daily water contact and many (~25%) had haematuria and albuminuria. As eggs with an atypical morphology of Schistosoma haematobium were observed, a general selection of schistosome eggs was characterized by DNA barcoding, finding Group I S. haematobium and Group IV and V S. mansoni. Malacological surveys encountered several populations of Bulinus globosus but failed to find Biomphalaria. CONCLUSIONS Both PSAC and their mothers appear to be at significant risk of schistosomiasis and should be considered for treatment within the NCP of Malawi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Poole
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - Dianne J Terlouw
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, PO Box 30096, Chichiri, Blantyre 3, Malawi
| | - Andrew Naunje
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, PO Box 30096, Chichiri, Blantyre 3, Malawi
| | - Kondwani Mzembe
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, PO Box 30096, Chichiri, Blantyre 3, Malawi
| | - Michelle Stanton
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - Martha Betson
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - David G Lalloo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - J Russell Stothard
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
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Preventive chemotherapy for schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis by cotreatment with praziquantel and albendazole. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.4155/cli.13.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Fecal occult blood and fecal calprotectin as point-of-care markers of intestinal morbidity in Ugandan children with Schistosoma mansoni infection. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e2542. [PMID: 24244777 PMCID: PMC3828154 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Calprotectin is a calcium-binding cytoplasmic protein found in neutrophils and increasingly used as a marker of bowel inflammation. Fecal occult blood (FOB) is also a dependable indicator of bowel morbidity. The objective of our study was to determine the applicability of these tests as surrogate markers of Schistosoma mansoni intestinal morbidity before and after treatment with praziquantel (PZQ). Methods 216 children (ages 3–9 years old) from Buliisa District in Lake Albert, Uganda were examined and treated with PZQ at baseline in October 2012 with 211 of them re-examined 24 days later for S. mansoni and other soil transmitted helminths (STH). POC calprotectin and FOB assays were performed at both time points on a subset of children. Associations between the test results and infection were analysed by logistic regression. Results Fecal calprotectin concentrations of 150–300 µg/g were associated with S. mansoni egg patent infection both at baseline and follow up (OR: 12.5 P = 0.05; OR: 6.8 P = 0.02). FOB had a very strong association with baseline anemia (OR: 9.2 P = 0.03) and medium and high egg intensity schistosomiasis at follow up (OR: 6.6 P = 0.03; OR: 51.3 P = 0.003). Both tests were strongly associated with heavy intensity S. mansoni infections. There was a significant decrease in FOB and calprotectin test positivity after PZQ treatment in those children who had egg patent schistosomiasis at baseline. Conclusions Both FOB and calprotectin rapid assays were found to correlate positively and strongly with egg patent S. mansoni infection with a positive ameloriation response after PZQ treatment indicative of short term reversion of morbidity. Both tests were appropriate for use in the field with excellent operational performance and reliability. Due to its lower-cost which makes its scale-up of use affordable, FOB could be immediately adopted as a monitoring tool for PC campaigns for efficacy evaluation before and after treatment. The severity of intestinal schistosomiasis, a disease caused by Schistosoma mansoni infection, is likely under-reported in part due to the scarcity of field-appropriate morbidity markers. Downstream potential complications of this disease include anemia, failure to thrive, and chronic multi-organ damage. Point-of-care (POC) tools to monitor intestinal schistosomiasis in low resource settings are urgently needed to better quantify the burden of disease in endemic countries and to gauge the clinical impact of scale-up of preventive PC. For the present study in rural Uganda, fecal occult blood and fecal calprotectin were identified as potential surrogate markers of intestinal morbidity. We tested both POC tests and found that they were both associated with active schistosomiasis as detected by eggs in stool with significant decrease in test positivity after PZQ treatment demonstrating short term morbidity reversion. Calprotectin was a strong indicator of intestinal inflammation, however, owing to its high per-test price makes it difficult to scale-up accordingly. Conversely, fecal occult blood was technically feasible, low-cost and had optimal performance as a morbidity marker, hence we strongly advocate for its immediate inclusion as a monitoring tool for PC programs.
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Schistosomiasis in African infants and preschool children: let them now be treated! Trends Parasitol 2013; 29:197-205. [PMID: 23465781 PMCID: PMC3878762 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2013.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Revised: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of schistosomiasis within African infants and preschool children has been much better documented in recent years, revealing an important burden of disease previously overlooked. Despite mounting evidence showing that treatment with praziquantel is safe, beneficial, and could be delivered within ongoing public health interventions, young children still do not have satisfactory access to this drug, and a significant treatment gap exists. Progress towards resolution of this unfortunate health inequity is highlighted, including the development of an appropriate paediatric praziquantel formulation, and present blocks are identified on securing this issue within the international health agenda.
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