Schistosomiasis Among Recreational Users of the Upper Nile River, Uganda
Schistosomiasis Among Recreational Users of the Upper Nile River, Uganda
After recreational exposure to river water in Uganda, 12 (17%) of 69 persons had evidence of schistosome infection. Eighteen percent self-medicated with praziquantel prophylaxis immediately after exposure, which was not appropriate. Travelers to schistosomiasis-endemic areas should consult a travel medicine physician.
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection caused by schistosome flukes, affects 207 million persons worldwide, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa. Schistosomiasis has been reported among travelers; 3 outbreaks have been reported among white-water rafters on the Omo River in Ethiopia. During September–November 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) received reports of schistosome infection among travelers returning from white-water rafting on the Nile River, Jinja District, Uganda. Approximately 12,000 persons raft each year in Uganda, and local rafting companies believe that exposure to fast-moving white water during rafting and kayaking presents a low risk for schistosomiasis (C. McLeay, pers. comm.).
Abstract and Introduction
Abstract
After recreational exposure to river water in Uganda, 12 (17%) of 69 persons had evidence of schistosome infection. Eighteen percent self-medicated with praziquantel prophylaxis immediately after exposure, which was not appropriate. Travelers to schistosomiasis-endemic areas should consult a travel medicine physician.
Introduction
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection caused by schistosome flukes, affects 207 million persons worldwide, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa. Schistosomiasis has been reported among travelers; 3 outbreaks have been reported among white-water rafters on the Omo River in Ethiopia. During September–November 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) received reports of schistosome infection among travelers returning from white-water rafting on the Nile River, Jinja District, Uganda. Approximately 12,000 persons raft each year in Uganda, and local rafting companies believe that exposure to fast-moving white water during rafting and kayaking presents a low risk for schistosomiasis (C. McLeay, pers. comm.).