In this transversal study, factors related to infection with and transmission of
Schistosoma mansoni
were explored. Based on stool examinations of two Kato-Katz smears of a single sample, the prevalences of schistosomiasis
and geohelminths were established. In a multivariable analysis, sets of demographic, socio-economic and water
contact pattern variables were tested for strength of relation with infection. Males presented a 3.39-times higher
risk for infection than females. The age groups between 10-19 years and 20-30 years showed risks of infection 7.1-
and 7.5-times higher, respectively, than the control age group between 0-10 years. Individuals practicing leisure
activities had a 1.96-times higher risk than those without these activities. The malacological survey identified snails
of the species
Biomphalaria glabrata
,
Biomphalaria straminea
and
Biomphalaria tenagophila
. Two exemplars of
B.
glabrata (0.53%) proved positive for
S. mansoni. The socio-economic improvements observed in the locality
suggest a protective and preventive effect towards infection with schistosomiasis, which requires further investigation
with a longitudinal and more detailed study design. Considering our findings, a proposal for an integrated control
program should be based on two pillars: one horizontal, which involves social empowerment and health education,
and another more vertical, which delivers treatment and infrastructure improvements.
