Schistosomiasis, also known as snail fever, is a parasitic disease caused by trematode worms of the genus Schistosoma. It is transmitted through contact with freshwater that has been contaminated with the larvae of these worms, which can penetrate the skin of humans who are bathing, washing, or swimming in the water. Schistosomiasis can affect the urinary tract or the intestines, and symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool or urine, and fever. It can also lead to complications such as anemia, liver damage, and bladder cancer. Schistosomiasis is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Africa, Asia, and South America. It can be treated with medications such as praziquantel, but it is best to prevent infection by avoiding contact with contaminated water.
Read: Schistosomiasis: Life cycle, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention.
MCQ on Schistosomiasis
- What is schistosomiasis caused by? a) Bacteria b) Fungi c) Parasitic worms d) Viruses. Answer: c) Parasitic worms
- How is schistosomiasis transmitted to humans? a) Through contaminated food or water b) Through insect bites c) Through skin contact with infected animals d) Through respiratory droplets Answer: a) Through contaminated food or water
- What are the symptoms of schistosomiasis? a) Fever, chills, and muscle aches b) Rash and itching c) Diarrhea and abdominal pain d) All of the above Answer: d) All of the above
- Who is most at risk of contracting schistosomiasis? a) Children living in rural areas b) Elderly people c) Urban residents d) People with compromised immune systems. Answer: a) Children living in rural areas
- What is the main treatment for schistosomiasis? a) Antibiotics b) Antifungal medication c) Antiparasitic medication d) Immunoglobulin. Answer: c) Antiparasitic medication
- Can schistosomiasis be prevented? a) Yes, through regular use of insect repellent b) Yes, by boiling all drinking water c) No, it is not preventable d) Yes, by avoiding contact with contaminated water. Answer: d) Yes, by avoiding contact with contaminated water
- How is schistosomiasis diagnosed? a) Through a physical examination b) Through a blood test c) Through a stool sample d) All of the above. Answer: d) All of the above
- Can schistosomiasis be cured? a) No, it is a chronic condition b) Yes, with proper treatment c) Yes, but only in its early stages d) No, it can only be managed. Answer: b) Yes, with proper treatment
- What is the most common type of schistosomiasis? a) Schistosoma mansoni b) Schistosoma japonicum c) Schistosoma haematobium d) Schistosoma mekongi. Answer: c) Schistosoma haematobium
- What is the main mode of transmission for Schistosoma mansoni? a) Contaminated water b) Insect bites c) Contact with infected animals d) Respiratory droplets. Answer: a) Contaminated water
- What is the main mode of transmission for Schistosoma japonicum? a) Contaminated water b) Insect bites c) Contact with infected animals d) Respiratory droplets. Answer: a) Contaminated water
- What is the main mode of transmission for Schistosoma haematobium? a) Contaminated water b) Insect bites c) Contact with infected animals d) Respiratory droplets. Answer: a) Contaminated water
- What is the main mode of transmission for Schistosoma mekongi? a) Contaminated water b) Insect bites c) Contact with infected animals d) Respiratory droplets. Answer: a) Contaminated water
- What is the most common symptom of Schistosoma haematobium infection? a) Fever and chills b) Rash and itching c) Diarrhea and abdominal pain d) Blood in urine. Answer: d) Blood in urine
- What is the most common symptom of Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum infection? a) Fever and chills b) Rash and itching c) Diarrhea and abdominal pain d) Blood in urine Answer: c) Diarrhea and abdominal pain
