Does Schistosoma have a vaccine?

A case for schistosomiasis vaccine Although, there is currently no vaccine available for human use against schistosomiasis, strong evidence from human field studies and experimental animal models of schistosomiasis support the feasibility of developing of an effective vaccine for long term protection [19, 20].

Is there a vaccine for snail fever?

A Schistosomiasis vaccine is a vaccine against Schistosomiasis (also known as bilharzia, bilharziosis or snail fever), a parasitic disease caused by several species of fluke of the genus Schistosoma. No effective vaccine for the disease exists yet.

Is praziquantel a vaccine?

Despite the enormous morbidity attributed to schistosomiasis, there is still no vaccine to combat the disease for the hundreds of millions of infected people. The anthelmintic drug, praziquantel, is the mainstay treatment option, although its molecular mechanism of action remains poorly defined.

How can a vaccine protect people from schistosomiasis?

A vaccine would contribute to the reduction of schistosomiasis morbidity through induced immune responses leading to decrease in parasite load and reduced egg production. This vaccine could be administered to children between the ages of 3 and 12 years to prevent severe infection in a particularly high risk population.

Who controls schistosomiasis?

Schistosomiasis control focuses on reducing disease through periodic, large-scale population treatment with praziquantel; a more comprehensive approach including potable water, adequate sanitation, and snail control would also reduce transmission.

Can schistosomiasis be passed from person to person?

A person with schistosomiasis cannot pass it on to another person. Humans only become infected through contaminated water where the snails are living.

Can schistosomiasis be cured?

Schistosomiasis can usually be treated successfully with a short course of a medication called praziquantel, which kills the worms. Praziquantel is most effective once the worms have grown a bit, so treatment may need to be repeated a few weeks after your first dose.

Is praziquantel harmful to humans?

It is generally acknowledged that praziquantel is highly effective and safe with no serious adverse reactions. Common adverse reactions are usually mild and include abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, sleepiness, and headache [77].