Surveillance of potential transmission factors of schistosomiasis in Xiuzhou District of Jiaxing City from 2013 to 2015

Abstract

To understand the potential risk of schistosomiasis transmission in Xiuzhou District of Jiaxing City, so as to provide the scientific evidence for consolidating schistosomiasis control achievements. Fixed and mobile surveillance sites were set up in Xiuzhou District of Jiaxing City from 2013 to 2015. Oncomelania hupensis snails was surveyed historical snail habitats, current snail habitats, and suspected snail habitats. The schistosome infections were identified using serological and parasitological testing among local residents and mobile populations. In addition, the survival and reproduction of snails imported into Xiuzhou District was observed, and the schistosome infection in wild reservoir hosts was detected. A total of 540.14 hm2 of settings were surveyed in Xiuzhou District, Jiaxing City from 2013 to 2015, and 1.65 hm2 of snail habitats were identified. The snail habitats were mainly located in dry lands, and no infected snails or importation of snails were found. During the period from 2013 to 2015, a total of 7 668 local residents and mobile populations were examined in Xiuzhou District, and no new local infections were detected; however, three imported schistosomiasis cases were identified. Field simulation experiment showed that the imported snails laid eggs and reproduced in Xiuzhou District, and no schistosome infections were found in wild animals. There are still residual Oncomelania snails and imported schistosomiasis patients in Xiuzhou District of Jiaxing City; therefore, the surveillance and management of local Oncomelania snails and imported schistosomiasis should be intensified to reduce the risk of schistosomiasis transmission.