NTD modelling consortium schistosomiasis modelling project

Schistosomiasis is an intestinal and urogenital helminth disease. It is endemic in 54 countries, having one of the lowest coverages by mass drug administration (MDA) treatment of all helminth diseases. Schistosomiasis is caused by parasitic worms, such as Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma haematobium. Transmission to humans occurs when larval forms of the parasitic worms, carried by freshwater snails, penetrate the skin during contact with contaminated water. Interruption of transmission has become the goal in various regions. MDA treatment strategies use praziquantel to eliminate schistosomiasis.

\The NTD modelling consortium project aims to study the transmission dynamics and control of schistosome parasites. Mathematical models are used to determine the impact of a defined MDA programme on parasite prevalence and intensity over time to allow us to determine programmes for achieving schistosomiasis elimination.