Detection of Bulinus truncatus in Parts of Khuzestan Province, Iran, During October 2015

Abstract

Background: Bulinus truncatus is the intermediate host of Schistosoma haematobium, which is a causative agent of urinary schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease that has been given high priority by the world health organization. Although schistosomiasis was eradicated from Iran decades ago, Bulinus truncatus has been reported in some regions of Khuzestan. In addition, in recent years, cases of urinary schistosomiasis have been described in Iran's neighboring country Iraq. It is therefore possible that the disease may reemerge in the Khuzestan region in the future. Objectives: This study aimed to determine whether Bulinus truncatus is present in parts of Khuzestan province, Iran. Materials and Methods: Using a hand net, samples were taken from irrigation canals in 27 locations in Khuzestan province during October 2015. The collected materials were placed in a plastic container. The samples were then washed on a mesh screen. The snails were separated and dried at room temperature. Identification was carried out according to the morphological characteristics of the shell. A descriptive data analysis was subsequently conducted. Results: Bulinus truncatus was detected in seven locations. In addition, Melanoides tuberculata, which is also considered medically important, and Physa acuta were detected. The prevalence of Bulinus truncatus, Melanoides tuberculata, and Physa acuta was 6%, 5.5%, and 88.5%, respectively. Conclusions: Preventive measures to eliminate Bulinus truncatus should be applied in the Khuzestan region of Iran.