Preventing schistosomiasis

There's no vaccine for schistosomiasis, so it's important to be aware of the risks andtake precautions to avoid exposure to contaminated water.

You can check whether thearea you're visiting is known to have a problem with schistosomiasis usingTravel Health Pro's country information section .

If you're visiting one of these areas:

• avoid paddling, swimming and washing infresh wateronly swim in the sea or chlorinated swimming pools
• take waterproof trousers and boots with you if there's a chance you'll need to cross a stream or river
• boil or filter water before drinking as the parasites could burrow into your lips or mouth if you drink contaminated water
• avoidmedicines sold locally that areadvertised to treat or prevent schistosomiasistheseare ofteneither fake, substandard, ineffective or not given at the correct dosage
• don't relyon assurances from hotels, tourist boards or similar that a particular stretch of water is safe there have been reports ofsome organisations downplaying the risks

Applying insect repellent to your skinor quickly drying yourself with a towel after getting out of the water aren't reliable waysof preventing infection, although it's a good idea to dry yourself as soon as possible if you're accidentally exposed to potentially contaminated water.

There's some evidence that applying insect repellent containing 50% DEET to exposed areas each night after showering kills the parasite in the skin before it moves deeper into the body.