Outbreak of Schistosomiasis in Myanmar

Burmese health officials report via media that there have been more than 500 cases of schistosomiasis in Myanmar between March and mid-July 2018 2018.The areas most affected are reported to be the states of Rakhine and Shan. The area around Inle Lake is of particular concern.

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.