The chances of becoming infected with schistosomes is directly affected by the behavior of the person.
Avoid water exposure (wading, bathing, swimming, etc) in endemic areas, especially:
(1) slow-moving streams or rivers
(2) shallow fresh water lakes
The risk increases with the extent, duration and frequency of exposure but a person can become infected after a single, brief exposure.
Practices that can minimize the risk if water contact is unavoidable:
(1) wearing waterproof footwear and clothing that covers all exposed skin
(2) toweling off all exposed skin vigorously immediately after exposure
(3) rubbing all exposed skin with isopropyl alcohol
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
Specialty: Infectious Diseases, Gastroenterology, Urology
ICD-10: ,
