Introduction

Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia,is an infection caused by a parasitic worm that lives in fresh water in subtropical and tropical regions.

The parasite ismost commonly foundthroughout Africa, butalso lives in parts of South America, the Caribbean, the Middle East and Asia. The Travel Health Pro website has a map of where schistosomiasis is found .

You often don't have any symptoms when you first become infected with schistosomiasis, but the parasite can remain in the body for many years and cause damage to organs such as the bladder, kidneys and liver.

The infection can be easily treated with a short course of medicine, so see your GP if you think you might have it.

This page covers:

Schistosomiasis

Symptoms of schistosomiasis

Long-term problems caused by schistosomiasis

When to seek medical advice

Treatments for schistosomiasis

Preventing schistosomiasis

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 28 Nov 2016