Fact Ethiopia

Schistosomiasis is spreading in Ethiopia because: (a) the snail intermediate hosts are widespread, (b) new man-made water-bodies are being created at an accelerated rate forming suitable habitats for snails, (c) extensive movement of population is taking place causing the introduction of the disease to new areas by migrants from endemic areas.

In some 350 communities examined between 1953-1976 E.C (1961-84), Schistosomiasis mansoni patients were found in 62%; and among the positive communities 40% had a prevalence of higher than 10%.

So far the disease transmission has been proved in 30 localities, all with a prevalence of more than 10%, but localities with active transmission must be more numerous and further verification is needed.

Although the transmission is taking place in various water-bodies, the small highland streams at moderate altitude, roughly 1000-2000m above sea level, are the most important because the vast majority of endemic areas belong to this category.

The transmission is also provided in lakes Tana (Bahir Dar, Gorogora), Ziway, and Abaya; and in irrigation systems, (Wonji, Metehara and Finchaa). One estimate shows that the population living in the risk area, i.e. 1000-2000m altitude, is 18 million; and 14% (2.5 million) of this may be infected.

In the long run, proper human excreta disposal is the most fundamental and long-lasting solution for control or eradication of the disease.

Measures with quicker results include chemotherapy to cure the disease and reduce parasite egg output; snail control by various methods; improvement of water supply and sanitation to reduce the chance of getting infected, and to eliminate excrete contamination of water bodies.

(Source: National Atlas of Ethiopia)