Schistosomiasis in Sudan

The Federal Ministry of Health has reported that the Darfur states are among the worst affected by schistosomiasis in the country. In South Darfur, schistosomiasis has increased by 70% in the local population, making the incidence of the disease equal to that of North Kordofan. The minstry reported that there are no areas of the country free from schistosomiasis.

Advice for Travellers

Schistosomiasis is a chronic trematode (blood fluke) infection of the gastrointestinal or urogenital tract. Transmission occurs when human skin is exposed to fresh water containing infective forms of the parasite.

Travellers should be advised to:

• Avoid skin contact with fresh water in endemic areas e.g. ponds, lakes and rivers - this includes all water sports (diving, rafting, windsurfing, sailing.
• Swim only in protected swimming pools or safe seawater.
• Avoid drinking infected water.
• Wear protective footwear when walking in soil, especially if it is damp or water logged.
• Attend for screening on return if exposure has occurred, even if asymptomatic.

Further information on schistosomiasis.