Menace of schistosomiasis: Its true neglected nature in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s growing population remains vulnerable to schistosomiasis. In view of little or no actively planned control programmes for schistosomiasis in Nigeria, it has become a ‘come to stay’ disease. Schistosomiasis affects virtually all populations, but worst in children that indulge in indiscriminate water-contact activities (like wadding, swimming). Six Schistosoma species can cause human infections: S. haematobium, S. mansoni, S. japonicum, S. intercalatum, S. mekongi, and S. guineensis; but S. haematobium and S. mansoni are the predominant causes of the disease. Human adults who practice unprotected irrigation farming, fishing, washing, or fetching of water from cercariae-infested water bodies or use such water for domestic chores are prone to schistosomiasis. The disease impacts health and development of Nigerian children. Anaemia, bladder cancers, haematuria, proteinuria, poor growth and low academic performances are evident among infected children. A good fraction of the Nigerian population is mostly unaware of the risks of transmission of schistosomiasis via cercariae-infested water bodies and hence more infections occur. It will cost less to prevent and control schistosomiasis than to treat and manage the infection. Therefore, there is an urgent need for implementation of other effective control measures other than administration of Praziquantel alone. Snail control, provision of safe water, good sanitation system and adequate creation of awareness will be vital for prevention and control of schistosomiasis in Nigeria.