Around 10 million people residing in 28 provinces in the Philippines are at risk of schistosomiasis, a neglected parasitic disease, according to the Department of Health (DoH). This disease is caused by blood flukes or flatworms, which are commonly found in bodies of water with poor sanitation.
“People can become infected when their skin comes into contact with contaminated freshwater, typically during activities such as swimming, bathing, or farming,” explains Dr. Kim Patrick Tejano, a medical officer at the Disease Prevention and Control Bureau. This means that freshwater fishermen, farmers, irrigation workers, and individuals living near bodies of freshwater are particularly vulnerable to contracting the disease.
As of 2018, the DoH has declared 28 out of the 81 provinces in the Philippines as endemic areas for schistosomiasis. Additionally, 190 out of 1,489 municipalities and 1,611 out of 42,036 villages have reported cases of the disease. These statistics highlight the widespread nature of schistosomiasis in the country.
The life cycle of the schistosoma parasite involves reproduction in snails and humans. Humans can acquire the infection when the larval forms of the parasite penetrate the skin, while some of the eggs are excreted through feces. This cycle perpetuates the spread of the disease in areas with contaminated water sources.
Dr. Annie Abordo-Dioso, an Adult Infectious Disease fellow at the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, explains that the symptoms of schistosomiasis can vary depending on the severity of the disease. Acute schistosomiasis often presents with symptoms such as swimmer’s itch (rashes), Katayama fever (chills, fatigue, headache, body pains, abdominal pain, diarrhea, cough, and dyspnea). On the other hand, chronic schistosomiasis may manifest as weight loss, anorexia, anemia, bleeding ulcers, nausea, vomiting, and seizures.
To combat schistosomiasis, the Philippine government has implemented various control measures. These include mass drug administration, health education campaigns, and improvement of sanitation and water supply systems. However, the challenge lies in reaching remote and marginalized communities, where access to healthcare and clean water remains limited.
It is crucial for individuals living in endemic areas to take preventive measures to reduce their risk of contracting schistosomiasis. This includes avoiding contact with potentially contaminated freshwater, wearing protective clothing when engaging in water-related activities, and practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands with clean water and soap.
In conclusion, schistosomiasis is a significant public health concern in the Philippines, affecting millions of people across numerous provinces. The disease is caused by blood flukes or flatworms found in bodies of water with poor sanitation. It is essential for the government and healthcare organizations to continue their efforts in controlling the spread of schistosomiasis and improving access to clean water and healthcare services in affected areas. By raising awareness and implementing preventive measures, we can work towards reducing the burden of this neglected parasitic disease on the Filipino population.
