Enhancing Schistosomiasis Control Strategy for Zimbabwe: Building on Past Experiences

Abstract

Schistosoma haematobium and Schistosoma mansoni are prevalent in Zimbabwe to levels that make schistosomiasis a public health problem. Following three national surveys to map the disease prevalence, a national policy on control of schistosomiasis and soil transmitted helminths is being developed. This paper reviews the experiences that Zimbabwe has in the area of schistosomiasis control with a view to influence policy. A case study approach to highlight key experiences and outcomes was adopted. The benefits derived from intersectoral collaboration that led to the development of a model irrigation scheme that incorporates schistosomiasis control measures are highlighted. Similarly, the benefits of using plant molluscicides and fish and duck biological agents (Sargochromis codringtonii and Cairina moschata) are highlighted. Emphasis was also placed on the importance of utilizing locally developed water and sanitation technologies and the critical human resource base in the area of schistosomiasis developed over years. After synthesis of the case studies presented, it was concluded that while there is a need to follow the WHO recommended guidelines for schistosomiasis control it is important to develop a control strategy that is informed by work already done in the country. The importance of having a policy and local guidelines for schistosomiasis control is emphasized.

Changing Policy and Practice in the Control of Pediatric Schistosomiasis

“…17 These results and those from the other groups were reviewed at a WHO working group meeting that made the recommendations detailed in the following discussion. Furthermore, our results informed the formulation of Zimbabwe's national schistosome and STH control program drafted in 2012, 44 making it 1 of the first national helminth control policies to include preschool-aged children.…”

New scope on the relationship between rotifers and Biomphalaria alexandrina snails

“…Thus, more emphasis should be put on studying microorganisms that may directly or indirectly affect the intermediate snail host and could be potential agents for disease control. So far, a number of biological control agents have been tried; bacteria, competitor snails, fish and rotifers [12][13][14][15][16][17] .…”

Manual Sobre os Direitos Humanos à Água Potável e Saneamento para Profissionais

“…Fontes : Morgan 2011;Chimbari 2012;Chimbari et al 1993. A qualidade e eficácia da gestão das águas residuais são fundamentais para minimizar os vários potenciais impactes sobre o meio ambiente, a saúde pública e o bem-estar humano. Os serviços públicos ou empresas privadas que operem serviços de saneamento são responsáveis por garantir que as águas residuais são efetivamente recolhidas, tratadas e rejeitadas em cumprimento das normas regulatórias estabelecidas.…”