It occurs in most of the world but is most common in India, South America, Thailand, the Phillipines, and Africa. This is caused by a worm which infects a fresh water snail. If crossing an infected stream is unavoidable, wear long trousers and shoes and dry out immediately. Try to cross upstream from where people use the river. Schistosomiasis is treatable so if you may have been exposed, get medical advice on your return home.
Chlorine based tablets are less effective.
You should drink lots of clear fluids, avoid solid food for the first 24 hours, and avoid dairy products until the diarrhoea improves. Imodium will relieve the diarrhoea but not treat the infection, so it should not be used if you have high fever or blood in the motions. Giardia causes bloating, abdominal discomfort, and bulky stool and tends to drag on for a long while. If you are becoming dehydrated, very ill, or not improving, try to find medical help. This site is designed to provide information about health services at the University of Sydney and is for educational purposes only.